In the last week of June the GPEI reported a total of 10 polio cases all involving circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) from five different states (Jigawa, Yobe, Borno, Kano and Zamfara), while from the most recent update there were single cVDPV2 cases in Afghanistan and the DRC, plus one cVDPV1 infection in Saadah, Yemen. Egypt has also recorded its 10th cVDPV2 positive environmental sample this year - in Qena north of Luxor.
THERE HAS been further deterioration in the cholera outbreaks that were affecting numerous states in late June, with media reports singling out Bauchi, Kano, Plateau and Ebonyi. On the other side of the continent, cholera vaccinations are being rolled out to residents of the islands off Tanzania’s coast, Zanzibar (Unguja) and Pemba. The WHO is supporting the program which aims to halt the outbreaks that frequently affect the Isles by 2028.
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.