According to the latest hepatitis A notifications, 277 cases have been confirmed this year and just over three-quarters of infections were in children under 15yo; highest case numbers were in Maré, Nouméa and Lifou. Also reported in the May Bulletin epidémiologique, leptospirosis cases recorded to June 11 have exceeded the 206 cases seen in the previous peak year, 1997. Of the 210 confirmed cases to date in 2021, three were fatal and highest disease incidence overall has been in Province Nord. Read more (Bulletin épidémiologique - N°58 / mai 2021)
Advice for travellers
Hepatitis A (HAV) is one of the more common infections for overseas travellers. The virus is transmitted by faecally contaminated food and water, or through some types of sexual contact. A course of hepatitis A vaccine offers immunity that’s highly effective and long-lasting. Travellers should also follow safe food and water guidelines.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.