Just under two weeks after a WHO Disease outbreak news post on Oropouche virus cases in the central rainforest region, the agency has published another article, this time relating to Mayaro virus (MAYV). Investigations into dengue fever-like illnesses reported since mid-July has uncovered 13 confirmed Mayaro virus disease cases, most of which were (unusually) from urban coastal areas (Cayenne, Kourou, and Montsinery-Tonnegrande), while two lived in a more typical rural/sylvatic setting (Roura). MAYV was first detected in French Guiana in 1998 and in the past three years, one to three cases were confirmed annually. It is from the same virus complex as the chikungunya and Ross River viruses and is characterised as an endemic and emerging pathogen in the Caribbean and Central/South America. With access to French technical and research capabilities, French Guiana is a ‘sentinel territory’ in the region, effecting the detection of other pathogens such as Tonate virus.
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.