This year has seen a marked decrease in wild poliovirus detections, with just two WPV1 cases recorded (one each in Pakistan and Afghanistan reported in January), compared to 87 for the same period in 2020. Cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) are also lower this year (160 cf. 206). Over the past fortnight only cVDPV2 infections were announced by the GPEI: Nigeria had 34 cases, Tajikistan’s seven were mostly from Khatlon (one case in Districts of Republican Subordination), while Afghanistan (Wardak) and the D R of Congo (Mongala) each reported a single case. Additionally, the first reports of positive cVDPV2 environmental samples detected in two more African countries: two in Uganda’s capital, Kampala (linked to the N’Djamena outbreak in Chad) and two in Western Region, Gambia (linked to Nigeria’s Jigawa outbreak).
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.