On Jan 16, the Dept. of Health reported that the number of polio cases had risen to 16 since the outbreak was declared in September 2019. Details were published on four new cases: one in Quezon City (located in Metro Manila, the National Capital Region) which occurred in a fully vaccinated, but immunocompromised, 3yo child; and the remaining three, all in boys aged three years or under, on the southern island of Mindanao. More information is provided in a Jan 16 ProMED report which also includes a global digest of wild and vaccine-derived polio cases.
Advice for travellers
Poliomyelitis is a potentially serious viral illness that is spread through contact with infected faeces or saliva. The risk to travellers is generally low, however vaccination is recommended for travel to affected regions and is a requirement for travel to/from some countries. If at risk, adults should have a booster to the childhood series. More on polio.
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.