In its January 14 flu report, the ECDC has advised ‘widespread influenza activity and/or medium influenza intensity’ in Albania, Belarus, Georgia, Israel, Moldova, Norway, North Macedonia, Russia and Sweden - testing found an overall predominance of A(H3) viruses. While the WHO global update for mid-December notes that ‘H3N2 influenza is still the dominant strain in most parts of the world, except for China, where activity is rising with influenza B as the most common strain’. Read more. In other news on flu, an epidemic of A(H3N2) influenza is underway in French Polynesia after the event was declared by health authorities in week 51, 2021.
Advice for travellers
In most years, seasonal flu is the most common vaccine-preventable travel-related illness: it’s likely to be found aboard aircraft, in crowded airport terminals, and at your destination. Whether you are travelling within Australia or overseas, vaccination is highly recommended and travellers should also avoid close contact with people showing flu-like symptoms, and thoroughly washing hands using soap and water after using the toilet and before eating. Alcohol-based hand sanitiser is a convenient alternative if soap and water is not available.
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.