More than 390 suspected measles cases have been reported in sporadic outbreaks in the municipalities of Sabha and Bani Waleed. The development is said to be a cause of concern for the WHO, as routine immunisation programs have lapsed or slowed during the pandemic. In other news on measles, authorities in the Maldives are conducting enhanced surveillance after the confirmation of one case and another is suspected in two children from Addu City, located on Addu Atoll in the extreme south. The Maldives was declared measles-free in 2017. South Africa’s NICD published an update on the ongoing outbreak on March 31. Lastly, a situation report on the D R of Congo clearly shows its heavy measles burden, with epidemics underway in 21 provinces and suspect cases more than double the same period last year - passing 52,000 (with almost 600 deaths). Read more
Advice for travellers
Measles occurs in developing and developed countries and unvaccinated travellers are at particular risk, both in transit and during their stay. 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. Read more about measles.
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.