In its latest weekly update, the ECDC advised that increased levels of group A strep (GAS) infections and iGAS cases were ongoing in Denmark, Ireland, the Netherlands and the UK, with the usual peak season in Spring still to settle in. The age groups that have been most affected to date are children under 10 years and adults aged over 65 years. Read more
Advice for travellers
Scarlet fever is a low risk for most travellers. A mild bacterial infection, it generally causes strep throat or, less commonly, streptococcal skin infections. It affects people of any age, but is most common among children. The classic symptom is a sandpaper-like red rash. Scarlet fever is treatable with antibiotics which helps clear up symptoms faster, reduces spread to other people and prevents rare but serious long-term health problems. Read more on group A streptococcal infections, including the severe, life-threatening invasive group A streptococcal disease (iGAS) infection.
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.