Phone (02) 9891 4850

Dengue Fever update - February 2012

During the last few months, dengue fever outbreaks have been reported in a number of countries around the globe. Recently dengue has most severely affected Bolivia (especially Santa Cruz), Brazil (Manaus, Rio, Bahia, Londrina, Amazonas), Ecuador, Sri Lanka, India (Delhi, Manipur state, Tamil Nadu), Pakistan (Sindh province), Phillipines (Valenzuela, Manilla, Zamboanga). Ironically, the number of cases of dengue fever in Thailand has shown a small decrease as a consequence of unsuitable breeding conditions for the mosquitoes.

A number of countries have recently recorded an increase in the number of cases of the mosquito-borne illness, dengue fever. Dengue fever is common in many tropical areas of the globe that are frequently visited by travellers. The illness is often transmitted in urban areas. Those affected may develop a severe flu-like illness with a characteristic rash. No vaccine is available however the illness risk may be reduced by minimising the number of mosquito bites in affected regions. Travellers should dress appropriately and use high quality insect repellants if required. Although rarely fatal, the illness may be severe or prolonged in some individuals or in children. Complications may arise.

All visitors to these regions listed above are advised to minimise the risk of mosquito bites and seek medical attention if ill. Aspirin must NOT be used for treatment.

Measles update - multiple countries - February 2012

A multitude of countries have reported cases of the infectious illness measles during the last few months and travellers should remain alert about this illness if intending to travel. Cases of measles have also been reported from Australia. In late 2010, a new strain of measles was identified in Europe. Over 26,000 cases of measles have been confirmed in Europe alone. Many cases of measles are still being reported in areas of Europe (France, Germany, Russia, Ukraine). Other outbreaks have been reported in USA (Delaware), and New Zealand (Poriua). All travellers are advised to check their measles immunity is sufficient before travelling.

Yellow Fever - Cameroon, Ghana- February 2012

Authorities in West Africa have recently announced an outbreak of yellow fever in Ghana and Cameroon. Cases were identified in northern Cameroon in late 2011. Authorities have been attempting to limit the outbreak with mosquito control measures and a vaccination program in affected districts. In Ghana, cases have been identified in the Upper East Region and in the mid-western part of the country. Yellow fever is a mosquito-borne illness which causes severe symptoms, organ failure and often death. No treatment is available once symptoms develop but the illness may be prevented by a safe and effective vaccine. Yellow fever vaccine is available for travellers to affected regions from our Parramatta clinic. Call 9891 4850 for an appointment.

Yellow Fever Requirement, South Africa - November 2011

Health authorities in South Africa have recently imposed additional yellow fever requirements for incoming passengers from southern African countries including Zambia. Travellers who are visiting Victoria Falls or Zambia are advised to consider vaccination against yellow fever at the present time. Please contact our Parramatta clinic on (02) 98914850 to discuss the specific requirements for your upcoming trip to Southern Africa.