One game reserve, 2 sleeping sickness cases

From a report published in ProMED on Oct 18: in the previous week two people from the same northern game reserve - Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve - have been diagnosed with East African trypanosomiasis and are undergoing treatment in South Africa. Read more

Advice for travellers

Human African trypanosomiasis is rare in travellers, however the tsetse fly, which spreads the disease, is found in 37 African countries. The aggressive flies are attracted to moving vehicles and bright and dark colours; they can also bite through light-weight clothing. Travellers should cover up well with neutral-coloured, medium weight clothing and apply an effective personal insect repellent  at all times when outdoors. Read more on African trypanosomiasis and how to avoid infection.

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.