New tularaemia cases are now on the decline after reaching a peak of 150 per week in the first half of August (now around 100). The adjacent counties of Dalarna and Gävleborg in middle Sweden have recorded many of the recent cases, however dispersal of tularaemia infections has also become more widespread in the north (Norrland). While the Swedish Public Health Agency has registered almost 800 cases to date, September is the peak month according to the ECDC, due to ‘greater exposure to contaminated water and mosquito activity during the summer and early autumn months… Farmers and people involved in hunting, wildlife management, hiking and camping are at higher risk of infection’. During this season’s outbreak, almost three-quarters of infections have been acquired through mosquito bites. Read more
Advice for travellers
The main hosts of tularaemia bacteria in Europe are rabbits, hares and rodents and the majority of infections contracted there are through tick or mosquito bites, or by ingesting contaminated food or water. It is described as often being 'a long and debilitating disease' that can affect the eyes, lymph nodes, skin and lungs. Prevention measures include avoiding insect bites and the ingestion of surface water. Read more on tularaemia.
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.