Last week, Ho Chi Minh’s tally of hand, foot and mouth disease infections peaked for the year to date with 640 new cases recorded. Highest rates were in Districts 9, 12, Tan Phu and Binh Chanh; more cases are expected now that the new school term has started. In other news, a senior health official has admitted that challenges persist in attaining adequate vaccination coverage for diseases such as measles and diphtheria in remote, disadvantaged regions. On diphtheria, cases have increased markedly this year - of the 198 cases, there were ‘172 cases in the Central Highland region, 22 cases in central provinces and four cases in southern provinces’. Read more
Advice for travellers
HFMD mainly affects young children and symptoms include fever, oral lesions, and rash on the hands, feet and buttocks. There is no vaccine or preventative medication, but good hand hygiene will greatly reduce the risk of infection. Read more about HFMD.
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.