In a May 1 health department update, the Marburg virus disease (MVD) outbreak total sat at 17 confirmed cases (none currently hospitalised) and 12 deaths. A further 23 probable cases, all fatal, have been reported. And in Tanzania, the health minister has said that the Kagera region MVD oubreak has been contained, however surveillance will be continued for the full 42-day period. Read more
Advice for travellers
Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a severe viral haemorrhagic fever, related to the Ebola virus, and there is no treatment. Found in the African fruit bat, Marburg typically appears in sporadic outbreaks and laboratory-confirmed cases have occurred in Uganda, Zimbabwe, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Angola, and South Africa. Preventive measures are not well defined, as study in how it is spread continues, but travellers should avoid contact with fruit bats and sick primates in central Africa. Read more on MVD
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.