Last week the GPEI advised that a single case of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) had been detected in a person with acute flaccid paralysis from Liangshan Yi Autonomous prefecture, Sichuan province and noted that the virus ‘is genetically linked to a VDPV2 isolated from an environmental sample from Xinjiang province, collected on 18 April 2018’. A rapid response has been instituted by the government ‘strengthening disease surveillance, investigating the origin of the virus and planning an appropriate outbreak response’. Meanwhile this week the agency announced two circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 1 (cVDPV1) cases from the eastern state of Kayin in Myanmar (onset of paralysis was on 22 May 22 and June 14) and two cVDPV1 positive contacts in the same northern district (Papun). Routine immunisation in Myanmar (including bivalent OPV) is around 89 percent and neighbouring countries have been notified of the situation.
Advice for travellers
Poliomyelitis 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.