Several regions have recorded sharp rises in hand, foot and mouth disease infections, with HCM City’s increase significantly higher than for the same period in 2020. Illness caused by enterovirus-71 (EV-71) represents most of the severe cases requiring intensive care support. Vietnam is part way through the first of two annual HFMD peaks which occur from March-May and then again from September to December. Read more
Advice for travellers
HFMD mainly affects young children and symptoms include fever, oral lesions, and rash on the hands, feet and buttocks. There is no vaccine or preventative medication, but good hand hygiene will greatly reduce the risk of infection. Read more about HFMD.
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.