Polio count climbs to 18

More polio cases have been diagnosed as heightened surveillance continues across the country; three cases from the provinces of Enga, Eastern Highlands and Madang were reported by the GPEI on October 16th. Vaccination campaigns continue for all children under 15yo. The GPEI also reported on one new wild poliovirus case in Afghanistan’s Hilmand province and cVDPV cases in Somalia (1 case) and Niger (3). Read more

Advice for travellers

Polio is a potentially serious viral illness that is spread through contact with infected faeces or saliva. The risk to travellers is generally low, however vaccination is recommended for travel to affected regions and is a requirement for travel to/from some countries . If at risk, adults should have a booster to the childhood series. More on polio.

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.