Australia is a very popular island destination in Australasia, surrounded by pacific island nations like New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.
Recommended Travel Vaccines for Australia
ALL TRAVELLERS | SOME TRAVELLERS | COURSE* | |
Hepatitis A | 2 weeks before travel 1 dose | ||
Hepatitis B | 3 weeks before travel 3 doses | ||
Japanese Encephalitis | 3 months before travel 2 doses | ||
Rabies | 4 weeks before travel 3 doses | ||
Tetanus | Anytime before travel 1 dose | ||
Yellow Fever | 10 days before travel 1 dose |
*Vaccination schedules are approximate and are calculated based on the first dose. Schedules are subject to change depending on your individual needs and will be discussed in your appointment. These are the minimum times required to complete courses or for vaccines to become fully effective. You can always start your course of vaccinations earlier than stated, as vaccines work best when your body has time to process them. Your Travel Nurse will discuss any health implications in your appointment
Yellow Fever in Australia
There is no risk of Yellow Fever in Australia.
Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over 1 year of age arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited more than 12 hours through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission, excluding Galapogos Islands in Ecuador, the island of Tobago and limited Misiones province in Argentina.
Malaria Risk in Australia
Malaria is not present in Australia.
Other Health Risks
Leptospirosis in Australia
There is a risk of Leptospirosis. Leptospirosis infection is widespread throughout the world, but cases are most common in tropical climates, areas where the standard of hygiene is poor and in areas subject to flooding. The infection occurs when cuts or abrasions of the skin and mucous membrane (eyes, mouth) come into contact with flood water, moist soil, vegetation (particularly bamboo) and fresh water infected by animal urine and other secretions. Prevention is dependent on covering cuts, scratches and open skin lesions with waterproof plasters, avoiding swallowing or drinking potentially infected water and, where risk is high, protective clothing should be worn.
Dengue Fever in Australia
There is a risk of Dengue Fever. It is spread by a species of mosquito called Aedes aegypti, otherwise known as the ‘tiger mosquito’ which mainly bites during the day. The illness is widespread throughout the tropics and subtropics, affecting over 100 countries with approximately 50 million cases globally a year. Currently most infections occur in SE Asia, South and Central America, Mexico, Africa, Indian sub-continent, Hawaii and the Pacific. There is currently no vaccination against Dengue Fever, it is therefore important to protect yourself during the day with bite avoidance products like DEET. For more information – click here.