Algeria has become the latest country to detect circulating vaccine-derived polio type 2 (cVDPV2), in an individual from the southern province of Tamanghasset in the Ahaggar Mountains. The GPEI advised that a link has been found between this case and others infected with a strain originating in Zamfara, Nigeria. In other news from the update, all relating to cVDPV2: four cases in Niger (Maradi and three in Tillaberi), two in Benin (Atlantique and Oueme), and one each in Eritrea (Gashbarka) and Ghana (Savannah). Lastly, the US CDC has updated its travel advice in relation to polio, advising ‘Before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series.’ Level 2, Practice Enhanced Precautions alerts have been placed over a number of countries in Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe. Read more
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.