A WA health dept. media release on Dec 23 reported confirmed legionella infections in four Western Australians (plus two more from other states), all of whom had stayed at or near a hotel in Central Kuta, Bali between February and November 2019 – ‘the exact source of the disease remained unknown’. As a result, the dept. issued advice for travellers planning on staying or spending time in the vicinity of the hotel, as well as advice for recent visitors to that area of Bali, to monitor their health. Read more
Advice for travellers
Legionnaire’s disease occurs worldwide and many of the increasing number of cases reported in Australia in recent years have been linked to overseas travel. Outbreaks have been associated with hotels, resorts and cruise ships. The bacteria that cause Legionnaires’ disease are found in airborne droplets of warm, fresh water, such as from fountains, spas, showers and the cooling towers of buildings. Over 50s, current or former smokers, those with a chronic lung condition, and the immunocompromised are at higher risk of developing illness after exposure. Read more
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.