Shifting disease patterns and outbreaks affect the recommendations and information we provide to travellers during a pre-travel consultation. Each week Travelvax updates the current travel health alerts to reflect those issues which could affect travellers heading to a particular region or country. We do this by scanning the websites of health agencies such as the World Health Organization and the European and US Centers for Disease Control, as well as international news media. Simply click on the point on the map of your area of interest for more details on the current health alert. We also include Advice for Travellers which gives background information and tips. If you have any further questions, of course you can give our Travelvax infoline a call during business hours on 1300 360 164.
World travel health alerts for 9th of July 2024
Dengue surge in the Americas tops 9 million cases
Dengue fever virus in the Americas have already doubled 2023 numbers. More than 9.3 million cases have been reported by 43 countries and territories, with more than 9,500 severe and over 4,500 fatal. Highest records and deaths were Brazil, followed by Argentina, Peru, Paraguay, Colombia, and Ecuador.
Advice for travellers
Dengue is spread by two types of Aedes mosquitoes. Both breed close to dwellings, are found in shady areas and bite mainly during the daylight hours, making them difficult to avoid. Travellers should cover up with long-sleeved tops, long pants, and shoes and socks when mosquitoes are most active. Apply repellent containing an active ingredient, such as DEET, Picaridin, or PMD when outdoors to all exposed skin. Read more about dengue fever.
Multiple respiratory infections circulating simultaneously
With the flu, COVID and RSV respiratory viruses all currently circulating at the same time, there is a burden on the healthcare system. Read more
Advice for travellers
The flu season has arrived in the southern hemisphere and Travelvax Australia recommends vaccination for all travellers over 6 months. Seasonal flu is the most common vaccine-preventable travel-related illness, posing a risk aboard aircraft, in crowded airport terminals, and at your destination. Travellers should also avoid close contact with people showing flu-like symptoms, and thoroughly washing hands using soap and water after using the toilet and before eating. Hand sanitiser is a convenient alternative if soap and water is not available. Read more on seasonal influenza.
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus can spread from an infected person’s mouth or nose in small liquid particles when they cough, sneeze, speak, sing or breathe. These particles range from larger respiratory droplets to smaller aerosols. It is important to practice respiratory etiquette, for example by coughing into a flexed elbow, and to stay home and self-isolate until you recover if you feel unwell. Read more on COVID-19
Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious. Infants and older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV and need hospitalization. Vaccines are available to protect older adults from severe RSV. Preventive options are available to protect infants and young children from severe RSV. Read more
Over 24,000 Zika Cases Confirmed in the Americas
As of June 2024, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has confirmed 25,470 ZIka cases in the Americas in 2024. Brazil has reported about 90% of the Zika cases recorded in the Americas.
Advice for travellers
Epidemic of the Zika, chikungunya and dengue viruses continue in the Americas and Caribbean. Generally milder than dengue and chikungunya, Zika’s symptoms last 4-7 days and include a rash, pain in the joints, and the eye condition, conjunctivitis. With the apparent exception of pregnant women, long-term ill-effects are rare, although joint pain may linger for weeks – even months. Like dengue and Chikungunya, Zika is spread by Aedes mosquitoes which bite aggressively by day and are found in urban setting, including leafy gardens and outdoor restaurants. Travellers should take particular care to avoid being bitten just after sunrise and just before sunset, the mosquitoes’ main feeding time.
Polio outbreak alert update
34 Countries Identified in the Latest Polio Outbreak Alert. Read more
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.
Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) spreads at record rate
STSS is currently spreading in Japan, with approximately 1,000 cases of STSS reported this year. STSS is a bacterial infection that can progress into a range of diseases such as tonsillitis, impetigo, scarlet fever and pneumonia, however in some cases, the bacteria become invasive into soft tissue and muscle triggering necrotising fasciitis, a “flesh-eating disease”. Read more
Advice for travellers
Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome is a severe illness caused when Group A Streptococcus bacteria spreads into the blood and deep tissues.
Open wounds or sores, diabetes and alcohol usage are all factors that can increase the risk of contracting STSS. The disease is most common in over 65s.
Symptoms of STSS include fever, chills, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting, according to the CDC. Read more
Schistosomiasis parasites
More than 200 million people have schistosomiasis worldwide – the majority are in Africa. Praziquantel, is an effective treatment, available since the 1970’s. Read more
Advice for travellers
Schistomiasis or bilharzia is caused by a parasite which is released into fresh water by host snails. Lake Victoria, which Tanzania shares with Uganda and Kenya, is known to carry the host snails and around 10% of travellers exposed to contaminated water will be infected. No vaccine or prevention medication is available, but schistosomiasis is treatable – especially if diagnosed early. Read more on the risk for travellers and how to prevent infection. Read more