Improved sanitation to help control typhoid

In a measure aimed at limiting the spread of typhoid, the government is to ensure each house in typhoid-affected villages of Naitasiri District will have its own toilet after it was found that some residents used shared facilities. As of Dec 15, there had been 31 confirmed typhoid infections and a further 14 were suspected in the district which is located in SE Viti Levu, near Suva. Read more

Advice for travellers

Typhoid is endemic in many developing regions, although it generally presents a low risk for short-stay travellers staying in western-style accommodation. Vaccination against typhoid fever is itinerary specific, but is usually recommended for those staying or travelling extensively in rural areas, as well as for adventurous eaters and for travel to areas reporting drug-resistant typhoid. All travellers visiting endemic areas should follow safe food and water guidelines, and adopt strict personal hygiene practices.

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.