According to international health authorities, more than 21,000 cases of measles, a significant increase over average incidence, have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo since September 2010. Affected areas include Bandundu, Kasai Occidental, Kasai Oriental, Katanga, Maniema, and Sud-Kivu provinces. Vaccinations are recommended for travelers born in 1957 or later (1970 or…
There are many reasons why people choose to not be vaccinated against the flu, despite yearly recommendations. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends anyone over the age of 6 months receive the flu vaccine. This is particularly important for health care workers and volunteers, those caring for elderly or small children, travelers, pregnant women and those frequently…
Link to recent PBS video on ” Vaccines-Calling the Shots“, which examines vaccinations and the return of preventable diseases and the risks associated with opting to not vaccinate children.
The first 2 locally confirmed and acquired cases have been reported according to Nicaragua’s Ministry of Health. To date there have been 26 imported cases reported. Chikungunya fever is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Travellers are advised to practice daytime insect precautions. Travellers should seek travel health advice 4-6 weeks prior to departure…
According to a posting on ProMED, 2 cases of African trypanosomiasis have been confirmed in travelers returning from Masai Mara Game Reserve since January 2012. These are the first travel-related cases reported from this park since at least 2000. Travelers are advised to avoid blue clothing (known to attract tsetse flies). Conventional arthropod precautions are…
According to the Philippines’ Ministry of Health, more than 2,000 suspected cases of leptospirosis, a significant increase over the average incidence, have been reported throughout the country subsequent to recent flooding, primarily in Western Visayas, central Luzon, and metropolitan Manilla. Travelers to the Philippines who anticipate extensive outdoor exposure, including disaster relief workers and adventure…