A news source has reported new Zika virus infections in 24 provinces over the past month, with highest case numbers in Chanthaburi in the SE (37 cases) and 23 in Phetchabun in the central north. A July 27 news article from another outlet said at that time that the case total for the year to mid-July was 110 Zika cases from 20 Thai provinces. In related news, further testing is being sought to reconfirm Zika virus infections in three people from Ichalkaranji in the Indian state of Maharashtra. One of the individuals had a recent history of travel to Ratnagiri and Ganpatipule, while local media today reported a second confirmed Zika infection in Mumbai. Read more
Advice for travellers
Zika’s symptoms include a rash, pain in the joints, and the eye condition, conjunctivitis lasting 4-7 days. Long-term ill-effects are rare, although the joint pain may linger for weeks, even months. Like dengue and chikungunya, Zika is spread by Aedes mosquitoes which bite by day and are found in urban setting, including leafy gardens and outdoor restaurants – even in upmarket hotels and resorts. Transmission of Zika virus has also occurred during pregnancy, breastfeeding, sexually and also through blood or blood products. Travellers should take particular care to avoid being bitten just after sunrise and just before sunset, the main feeding time for Aedes mosquitoes. All travellers, but particularly pregnant women or those planning pregnancy, should seek medical advice before travel to Zika-affected areas. Read more about Zika virus through healthdirect.
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.