International Health Regulations updated to prevent spread of wild poliovirus
The World Health Organization has declared the recent spread of polio an international public health emergency. Recommendations have been made to prevent any further spread of the virus. Countries of concern include: Afghanistan, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Iraq, Israel, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia and Syria; recommendations apply to residents and long term visitors. The situation will be closely monitored and updated when further information is available.
Travellers are advised to seek travel health advise prior to departure. There is little or no risk to travelers going to countries where polio has been eradicated. Risk factors depend on length of stay, type of travel and living conditions. It is important to seek travel health advice to ensure your immunizations are up to date and to be obtain up to date information on travel health risks.