A measles outbreak is ongoing in the eastern region of Yokadouma, adding to the national total for the year to Apr 4 which already sits at 843 cases and 20 deaths. In a media release this week, the WHO announced that up to 50 countries face a high risk of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable disease such as measles, yellow fever and polio after the disruption of immunisation programs due to the pandemic – over half of countries at-risk are in Africa. Read more
Advice for travellers
A highly contagious virus, measles occurs in developing and developed countries. While generally benign, infection can result in severe illness or death. Travelvax Australia recommends travellers check their immunisation status for measles and other childhood diseases such as diphtheria, whooping cough (pertussis) and mumps at least 6 weeks before departure.
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.