The GPEI’s weekly round-up of polio cases centred on cVDPV2 again, with Nigeria’s three cases coming from the states of Kebbi, Nasarawa and Rivers, while Mali reported two cases (Mopti and Sikasso) and Ethiopia recorded a single case in Oromiya. In other polio news, Uganda has declared a public health emergency over the recent detection of cVDPV2 in environmental samples from the Kampala neighbourhoods of Bugolobi and Lbigi. The virus strain isolated from Kampala has been linked to an outbreak in Sudan. Across the country, reactive immunisation campaigns are planned for October and December, while environmental surveillance and monitoring for acute flaccid paralysis cases have also been ramped up.
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.