A herd of goats has been confirmed as the source of Q fever infections in several residents living in the southern canton of Valais. Six cases have been detected to date in people from the area between Visp and Brig, and the community has been cautioned to report flu-like symptoms. Read more
Advice for travellers
This bacterial infection is contracted from infected animals or through inhaling dust contaminated with their body fluids. Around half of infections are asymptomatic, but it can cause a flu-like illness with symptoms including fever, fatigue and muscle pain which appear up to 2 to 3 weeks following infection. The disease may progress to become severe with complications such as pneumonia and hepatitis, or it may become a chronic infection with secondary effects. Vaccination is recommended for certain high risk groups and pre-vaccination screening is required. Read more
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.