After news last week of a rise in viral conjunctivitis cases in India and Pakistan, news of similar outbreaks have emerged in Vietnam and Ghana. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have recorded a surge in cases in both adults and children, with severe complications affecting around 20 percent of children at one HCMC paediatric hospital. In Ghana, local media reported the spread of haemorrhagic conjunctivitis (known locally as ‘apollo’) across the country. Read more
Advice for travellers
Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is one of the most common eye conditions in children and adults. It is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and the white part of the eyeball. This inflammation makes blood vessels more visible and gives the eye a pink or reddish color.
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.