More than 200 confirmed cases of measles and a further 92 probable cases, a significant increase over the average incidence, have been reported from Liverpool and neighbouring areas in Merseyside so far this year, according to the United Kingdom’s Health Protection Agency. Incidence of measles in Europe as been elevated since 2009. Vaccinations are recommended for travellers born in 1957 or later (1970 or later in Canada) without history of disease or of two adequate doses of live vaccine in their life.
Public Health Agency of Canada: Travel Health Notice : release April 25, 2012
Source: PHAC / 2012 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in London, England
The 2012 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games are being hosted in London, England from July 27 to August 12 and August 29 to September 9 respectively. More than a million people from around the world, including Canadians, will travel to the United Kingdom to participate in, work at, or watch the different games and events. The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends routine travel advice to help ensure a healthy trip for travellers attending the 2012 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Large crowds are expected, which can increase the risk of accidental injury as well as infectious diseases such as gastrointestinal illness and colds. Travellers should be aware of ongoing measles outbreaks in many countries in Europe. Travellers should also be aware of other infectious diseases such as HIV.
Recommendations
Consult a doctor, nurse or health care provider, or visit a travel health clinic preferably six weeks before you travel.
- Review travel health recommendations for the United Kingdom with your health care provider
- Get vaccinated
- Practise safe food and water precautions
- Practise insect bite prevention
- Protect yourself from animal-related diseases
- Protect yourself from HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Be alert to crime
- Pay attention to the weather
- Drive with caution
- Purchase travel health insurance
