Latest data on mumps notifications reveal the count already double the 2018 total with 1,015 cases to week 17 – over 650 were in the 15 to 24 years age group. Across the country, highest rates of infections were in the area covered by the Eastern Regional Health Authority. The director of the HSE has also warned that measles vaccination coverage rates are ‘up to 8% below what they should be in some parts of the country’, so a spike in cases is likely during the peak summer travel period. Read more
Advice for travellers
These outbreaks of mumps highlight the importance of current immunisation against contagious childhood diseases, such as whooping cough (pertussis), diphtheria, rubella and measles for travel to any destination – be it a developed or developing country. Read more about mumps.
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.