London Travel Vaccination Clinic – Daily Update 4 June 2014

Daily Update 4 June 2014 from Destination Health: Travel Vaccination Clinic in London.

The Caribbean

The Dengue Fever Outbreak in the Caribbean continues to be a serious concern for both travellers and people living throughout the region. New cases of the disease are being reported everyday. Dengue Fever is a serious illness that causes severe fever, joint and muscle pains and can be fatal in some instances. If you are travelling to the Caribbean, avoid contracting this disease by using DEET 50% insect repellent and coving exposed areas of skin.

The Middle East

The Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) outbreak that started in Saudi Arabia has so far claimed the lives of almost 200 people and over 575 confirmed cases. MERS is a serious respiratory condition which can cause difficulties in breathing and in severe cases and can be fatal, especially in people that are immunosuppressed. There is currently no vaccination available for Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome and travellers are therefore advised to ensure that they try to avoid contact with anyone suspected of carrying this disease.

West Africa

The Ebola Outbreak in West Africa has caused UK mining firm London Mining to impose travel restrictions and restrictions on all non essential staff in its operations in Sierra Leone. The outbreak which began in Guinea has killed over 100 people in Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia. It is a highly contagious disease and has a very high fatality rate. There is currently no vaccination available for the Ebola Virus although health authorities are currently researching and working on a vaccination for the future.

South East Asia

There have been recent outbreaks of Measles in a number of countries in South East Asia including Vietnam, Philippines and Indonesia. Measles which causes high fever an spots around the throat and mouth is a potentially very serious illness which can develop into an infection of the lungs or brain which can be fatal in some severe cases. Travellers to this region are advised to make sure that they are up-to-date with their routine vaccinations which includes MMR to avoid further spreading the disease in South East Asia as well as upon their return.

South Sudan

There is currently a Cholera Outbreak in South Sudan which is affecting people that are fleeing the fighting in the country. The outbreak has been caused by crowding and unsanitary conditions in refuge camps and crowded areas. Over 1,000 cases have now been reported as well as over 20 deaths. Travellers to the area are advised to consider a cholera vaccination which will help reduce the risk of developing this illness.

Brazil

Travellers to this years World Cup in Brazil are reminded to practice mosquito avoidance measures to avoid being bitten by the daytime biting mosquito that spreads Dengue Fever. There is currently no vaccination for Dengue Fever which causes severe joint and muscle pains and which can also be fatal in some circumstances. Travellers should avoid being bitten by using DEET 50% insect repellant and covering exposed skin. Further details regarding Dengue Fever and other travel requirements to Brazil can be discussed with one of our travel nurses at either of our Travel Clinics in London.