The US CDC is maintaining its advice to men who have sex with men (MSM) to speak to their healthcare provider about vaccination against meningococcal disease as more serogroup C infections emerge in what is described as ‘one of the worst outbreaks’. At least 26 cases and seven deaths have been recorded in Florida outbreak. Vaccination is recommended for MSM who are residents of Florida, as well as those travelling to the state and anyone in the USA who is living with HIV. Pride events have added urgency to the advice on prevention. Read more
Advice for travellers
Meningococcal meningitis is an acute bacterial disease transmitted from person-to-person through close (kissing, sharing eating utensils) or extended contact. Risk factors include extensive travel in crowded conditions or extended contact with local people in crowded places. If planning to travel to any region experiencing an outbreak, discuss whether vaccination against meningococcal meningitis would be appropriate for your itinerary with your doctor. Read more about Men. meningitis.
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.