MERS cases continue to arise – 11 so far this month (one was a 10yo child) from the regions of Riyadh, Taif, Aseer and Qaseem. As noted in the WHO September Situation Update, the 50–59 years’ age group is at the greatest risk for acquiring infection and for death among primary cases. Saudi Arabia has had the highest burden of MERS infections since the coronavirus was first detected in 2012. Read more.
ALSO in the region, the Oct 28 WHO global influenza update notes that flu activity is rising in the Arabian Peninsula ‘with influenza A(H3N2) viruses predominating in Qatar and all seasonal influenza subtypes co-circulating in Kuwait and Oman’; while in other zones, influenza activity increased in Laos and the Philippines in SE Asia; and El Salvador and Nicaragua in Central America.
Advice for travellers
Seasonal flu is the most common vaccine-preventable travel-related illness: it’s likely to be found aboard aircraft, in crowded airport terminals, and at your destination. Vaccination is highly recommended and travellers should also avoid close contact with people showing flu-like symptoms, and thoroughly washing hands using soap and water after using the toilet and before eating. Alcohol-based hand sanitiser is a convenient alternative if soap and water is not available.
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.