Last month the ECDC issued advice on the heightened risk of mosquito-borne diseases in the region as the range of the invasive Aedes albopictus species continues to expand, now ‘established in 13 countries and 337 regions’. The agency also commented on the sustained presence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes (vector of dengue fever, chikungunya, Zika virus and yellow fever) in Cyprus since last year and the possibility that it ‘may continue to spread to other European countries’. The reasons behind the shift in risk include longer, warmer summers and flood events. Read more
Advice for travellers
The symptoms of chikungunya fever are similar to dengue fever and both are transmitted by the same mosquitoes – the day-time feeding Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Acute joint pain with a rash is typical of chikungunya and while fatal cases are rare, painful joints may persist for weeks or months after the acute phase has ended. There is no approved vaccine or prevention medication; using an effective, tropical-strength repellent to avoid insect bites is the best form of protection. Read more about chikungunya.
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.