HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS FOR YOUR JOURNEY TO AUSTRALIA

Australia is known for its diverse landscapes and varying climates, which unfortunately can also provide a suitable environment for various mosquito-borne diseases. Here are some of the most common mosquito-borne illnesses in the region.

Japanese encephalitis virus is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. Severe disease is characterized by rapid onset of high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, seizures, spastic paralysis and ultimately death. The case fatality rate can be as high as 30% among those with disease symptoms. Of those who survive, 20–30% suffer permanent cognitive, behavioural or neurological sequelae such as seizures, hearing or vision loss, speech, language, memory, and communication problems or weakness of the limbs. Vaccination is the most effective preventive measure for Japanese encephalitis.

Dengue fever is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. It can cause symptoms such as fever, chills, rash, intense pain behind your eyes, nausea and vomiting, and muscle and bone pain. Although there are no specific vaccines available in Canada, prevention through mosquito bite avoidance is crucial. Use insect repellents, wear protective clothing, and stay in accommodations with air conditioning or screened windows.

In addition to mosquito-borne and food-borne diseases, there are other health risks to consider.

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. Hepatitis B is spread through blood and bodily fluids. For most people, hepatitis B is short term, also called acute. Acute hepatitis B lasts less than six months. But for others, the infection lasts more than six months and is called chronic. Chronic hepatitis B raises the risk of liver failure, liver cancer and serious scarring of the liver called cirrhosis. Vaccination is highly recommended for travelers as it provides lifelong protection against the disease.

Rabies is an illness you get from an infection with the RABV virus. It causes symptoms like seizures, hallucinations and paralysis. The most common way to get rabies is through bat or dog bites. It can be a risk for travelers involved in outdoor activities or those visiting remote areas where contact with these animals are possible. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for adventure travelers, cavers, or those who will be in close proximity to wildlife. Rabies is preventable if you’re vaccinated quickly after exposure. Once symptoms start, rabies is fatal.

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can cause severe complications, especially among vulnerable populations. Different countries have different transmission seasons. By getting vaccinated against seasonal influenza, you protect yourself and reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others.

Australia boasts beautiful sunny destinations, but prolonged sun exposure can lead to sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer. Protect yourself by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. If you are applying both sunscreen and insect repellent, apply them 30 minutes apart. Both are effective and safe when used separately, but if combined, problems can arise. Some studies showed a more than 30 percent reduction in SPF when they were applied at the same time. What’s more, sunscreens enhance absorption of insect repellent into the skin, potentially increasing toxicity — especially in children.

All routine vaccinations, including MMR, Tdap, and varicella should be up-to-date prior to travel.