The incidence of syphilis is reported to be growing in some of Melbourne’s outer suburbs (namely Brimbank, Melton and Casey), with infections surging among women. Related infections are also trending upwards: a rise in ocular syphilis diagnoses and four babies have died from congenital syphilis over the last three years. There have been calls from doctors for urgent measures to counter ‘an evolving epidemic’ of the STI. Read more
QUEENSLAND Health is reporting a 70 percent hike over and above the 5-year average of leptospirosis infections this year. A department spokesperson said ‘the rise in cases has coincided with an increase in rodent activity and flooding events this year’, and has had the greatest impact on the regions of Cairns and Hinterland and the Darling Downs. Read more
Advice for travellers
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacterium that enters through wounded skin or mucous membranes. You can get syphilis by direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Infections can cause long-term complications if not treated correctly with an effective antibiotic. Read more about syphilis and other STIs.
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.