Daily Travel Health Update, September 30th 2014

Cholera – Volta Region of Ghana

With a current total of 400 cases of Cholera reported today in North Ghana, the number of cases has doubled since September 28th.  Health officials are taking steps to help halt the advance of the disease, with more than 10,000 cases throughout the country, and 120 deaths.

Dengue Fever – Kaohsiung, Taiwan

The Dengue Fever epidemic sweeping through South China has now become a major concern in Taiwan,  claiming the lives of 6 people in Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s major sea port.

Ebola News – Thailand

With more details to be released in Bangkok on Thursday, October 2nd, The National News Bureau of Thailand reports ground-breaking developments in the discovery of a specific vaccine that could cure Ebola patients.  The vaccine would produce antibodies which specifically target the virus which now affects more than 6550 victims in Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.

Dengue Fever – Singapore

Known cases of Dengue Fever in Singapore currently stand above 14,600, with 3 fatalities reported.  Officials believe the toll will rise above 15,000, as the Dengue season remains in effect for months to come.  Should you have up-coming travel plans that involve a visit to Singapore, it is vital that you know all you need to know about protecting yourself from mosquito bites.

The Aedes Aegypti mosquito carries the dengue virus, for which there is no cure, and the only way to stay healthy in areas affected by the virus is to keep from being bitten.  Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, hats, and even scarves over skin that is well-covered with insecticide.  Use a mosquito net treated with insecticide at night, and avoid areas with stagnant water, whether in ponds or containers.  It can take just one bite to become infected.  Please contact our Travel Health Clinic in London well in advance of travelling for a free consultation regarding Dengue or any other concerns you might have regarding your health.

Unrest and Protests – Hong Kong

Crowds continue to swell as protests heat up in Hong Kong, where, after a week of protests on Hong Kong streets, more than 10,000 demonstrators stand firm to win the right to elect an independent leader for Hong Kong, in the 2017 elections.  Meantime, the Government of China adamantly refuses to back down, calling October 1st the last day before protests must end.

Where this will go is unclear, however, the result of these demonstrations at the moment is that roadways and public access to what is always an overcrowded central area of Hong Kong are mostly inaccessible.  However, in view of the fact that October 1st is China’s National Day, there is every likelihood that the crowds of protesters could increase, as many will be on holiday.

During these difficult days for Hong Kong, travellers should be aware of the situation and keep up to date on developments before visiting certain parts of the Island, as well as Kowloon.

Travel Clinic London

Please remember that while you are making your travel arrangements for any destination in Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, South and Central America, it is most important to ensure that you are protected long before you arrive at your destination.   At least 4-6 weeks before your scheduled departure, do remember to call and book an appointment at one of our Travel Health Clinics in London for a check-up and any necessary immunisations and medication that you might need.