The Zambian President is urging people to move from bigger towns to smaller villages in the wake of over 300 deaths in the current cholera outbreak. Poor sanitation in high density areas is the concern for spreading the disease. More than 7,500 cases of cholera have been reported since October, with more than 500 new cases and 17 deaths recorded last week. Read more
Advice for travellers
Cholera is usually spread in contaminated water. For most short-stay travellers, the risk of infection is low. Australians travelling to regions where a cholera outbreak is occurring should adhere to strict personal hygiene guidelines and choose food and beverages with care. For those at higher risk, an oral cholera vaccine is available. Read more about cholera.
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.