A surge in Scotland’s mumps cases late in 2019 and early this year was effectively checked by pandemic lockdown measures, dropping from 853 for Jan-Mar down to 10 for the next quarter. Low uptake of the MMR vaccine is suggested as the reason for the increased incidence of mumps in the 17 to 34 years cohort. Read more
Advice for travellers
Largely preventable through vaccination, measles and mumps are highly contagious diseases that can cause serious illness in people of all ages. Travelvax Australia recommends travellers ensure these and other routine childhood immunisations, such as tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough (pertussis) are current.
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.