The peak plague season in Madagascar is generally during the dry weather experienced from September/October to April and authorities have already announced seven deaths and 22 pneumonic plague infections in the Central Highlands district of Miandrandra Arivonimamo - the first death was recorded on Aug 23. The affected area has now been quarantined.
Advice for travellers
Plague occurs annually in Madagascar, but poses a low risk to most travellers. Most cases of plague are due to bubonic plague following the bite of an infected flea carried by rats. If left untreated, infection of the lungs causes the pneumonic form of plague, a severe respiratory illness, which can progress rapidly to death. Read more on the plague.
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.