The ECDC has warned that the region could be heading for a severe influenza season this year, borne out by an early increase in flu detections in Croatia. As the A(H3N2) subtype has been dominant to date, the agency’s programme chief said that the effects of the pandemic combined with a bad flu season “could have serious consequences for the elderly and those with weak immune systems and could place an additional burden on health systems already strained by COVID-19”. The 2020-2021 flu season was exceptionally mild due to non-pharmaceutical interventions, however in general, ‘approximately 20% of the population become infected with influenza each year and one in four infected people will develop symptoms’. More on the global flu situation from the Oct 25 WHO update.
Advice for travellers
Seasonal flu is the most common vaccine-preventable travel-related illness: it’s likely to be found aboard aircraft, in crowded airport terminals, and at your destination. Whether you are travelling within Australia or overseas, vaccination is highly recommended and travellers should also avoid close contact with people showing flu-like symptoms, and thoroughly washing hands using soap and water after using the toilet and before eating. Alcohol-based hand sanitiser is a convenient alternative if soap and water is not available.
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.