London Travel Vaccination Clinic – Daily Update 28 May 2014

Daily Update 28 May 2014 from Destination Health: Travel Vaccination Clinic in London.

Tanzania

An outbreak of Dengue Fever in Tanzania since the start of the year has spread throughout the country and has infected over 850 people and caused four deaths. Dengue Fever which is also known as break-bone fever causes severe pain in the bones and joints and muscles of these infected with the disease. In more serious forms of the disease it can develop into Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever or Dengue Shock Fever which in some cases can be fatal. Tanzania is a popular destination for travellers and people are advised to avoid mosquito bites by covering exposed skin and wearing insect repellant.

South Sudan

The number of cases of Cholera in South Sudan continue to rise with almost 700 cases confirmed and 23 deaths. The outbreak has occurred due to overcrowding and lack of sanitation in refuge camps following people fleeing the fighting in the country. Travellers to this region should consider being vaccinated against Choler which can reduce the risk of contracting this disease. In addition, travellers should always only drink bottled water and avoid tap water. Speak with one of our travel nurses at either of our travel clinics in London for further information and advice regarding avoiding cholera.

Papua New Guinea

Authorities have reported that there were over 800,000 confirmed cases of Malaria in Papua New Guinea in 2012 while more than 94% of the population live in high transmission areas. Travellers to this region should consult our London Travel Vaccination Clinic regarding malaria medication and advice on how to avoid this disease.

France

Authorities in France reported 23 confirmed cases of Chikungunya and Dengue Fever and many suspected cases in 2013 which were imported to the country from people travelling to areas of high transmission of these diseases. There is currently no vaccination for Chikungunya Fever and travellers are advised to use insect repellant and cover up areas of exposed skin to help reduce the risk of being infected with this disease which is spread by mosquitos which bite mainly during the daytime. 

South Africa

Bloemhof in the North West of South Africa could be facing an outbreak of Cholera due to untreated sewerage being released into the Vaal River. Local residents are being urged not to use the river as a source of drinking water. Should you be travelling to areas that are high risk of Cholera infection a vaccination is recommended to help reduce the risk of developing this disease which can be fatal if left untreated. 

Angola

A Measles outbreak in central Angola has claimed the lives of 11 people and infected over 700 people since the recent outbreak began at the start of January this year. Measles is a serious viral infection which causes high temperatures and spots around the mouth and throat of those infected but can also develop into more serious forms of the disease which infect the brain or the lungs which can be fatal in some circumstances. Travellers should always ensure that they are up to date with their routine travel vaccinations to avoid developing this illness as well as help stop the spread to unvaccinated people upon their return.