Health authorities have issued an alert relating to an increased incidence in whooping cough (pertussis). Western Cape was first to report a rise in the number of cases at the end of last year, but the increase is now also being felt by Gauteng, Mpumalanga, North West and KwaZulu-Natal, with infants under 3 months of age making up over half of the infections from May to July. Read more
THE death toll from rabies infections has risen to 11 this year, with two more suspected. The deaths were recorded in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape at a time when they are also experiencing outbreaks of rabies in dogs. Read more
Advice for travellers
Rabies is present in most countries and all travellers should be aware of the importance of avoiding contact with wild and domestic animals. If bitten or scratched, urgent post-exposure treatment is required. Vaccination is normally recommended for longer stays, especially travellers planning to live in, or travel extensively through, rural areas and also for children; however the final recommendation is itinerary-specific. Read more on rabies.
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.