WNV mosquito transmission confirmed

A year after West Nile virus was first detected in a small number of birds and horses, Germany has reported its first human WNV case (contracted via a native mosquito species) after a man from Saxony, who was being treated for encephalitis, tested positive to the virus. This may prove a forewarning for residents to be aware of the potential risk of WNV over the warmer months in years to come. Elsewhere in the region in the last reporting week: WNV cases were recorded in Greece, Hungary, Romania, Serbia and North Macedonia. Other WNV posts were from the US CDC and Bangladesh, where the first appearance of another mosquito-borne infection would be most unwelcome in light of the current dengue fever outbreak. The Institute of Epidemiology Disease Control and Research is carrying out investigations into a single case of West Nile virus fever identified in a man living near the capital, Dhaka. Read more

Advice for travellers

Most human WNV infections (70-80%) are mild, subclinical or asymptomatic, but around 1-in-150 cases involve potentially severe neuroinvasive disease.  The virus is transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, which feed mainly around dawn and dusk. While the risk of infection for most travellers is generally low, those visiting regions reporting human cases, particularly the peak transmission season, should take measures to avoid mosquito bites. Read more on WNV.

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.