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Health Advice for Travellers
Swiss Expert Committee for Travel Medicine

 

Health Advice for Travellers
Swiss Expert Committee for Travel Medicine

 

Health Advice for Travellers
Swiss Expert Committee for Travel Medicine

Australia

Latest News

Health officials are investigating two locally acquired malaria cases on Torres Strait Island, likely caused by mosquito-borne transmission from Papua New Guinea. These are the first local cases in 2025, contributing to 71 malaria notifications in Queensland—more than double the 2020–2024 annual average of 33. Although most of 2025 cases were imported, mainly from PNG and the Solomon Islands, mosquito species capable of local transmission are present in northern Queensland and the Torres Strait.

The risk of sustained transmission is currently considered low. Optimal mosquito bite prevention 24/7 is recommended also against other mosquito borne diseases.

 

In case of fever, malaria should be considered in the differential diagnosis in travelers returning from the Torres Strait Islands, Australia.

Queensland Government, 2.6.2025
Nach Angaben der Behörden wurden seit Jahresanfang und bis zum 6. April 2025 184 Fälle von Melioidose gemeldet – deutlich mehr als in den Vorjahren zur gleichen Zeit. Tatsächlich liegt die Zahl der Fälle in den ersten drei Monaten des Jahres 2025 bereits über den gesamten Jahreszahlen der vergangenen fünf Jahre.
Lokale Medien berichten ausserdem von 26 Todesfällen durch Melioidose in Queensland seit Jahresbeginn.
 
Melioidose, die durch das Bakterium Burkholderia pseudomallei verursacht wird, betrifft hauptsächlich Menschen, die direkten Kontakt mit kontaminiertem Boden und Wasser haben. Viele Melioidose-Patienten leiden an einer Grunderkrankung wie Diabetes (häufigster Risikofaktor), Nieren- und Lebererkrankungen und anderen. Informationen zur Melioidose: siehe CDC.
Vermeiden Sie den Kontakt mit Boden/Oberflächenwasser, insbesondere bei kleineren Wunden. Hautverletzungen sollten desinfiziert werden. Tragen Sie beim Waten durch Wasser Schutzkleidung.
Outbreaknewstoday 09.04.2025

Since 1 Jan 2025, more than 40 cases of melioidosis have been reported in Carins and Townsville in northern Queensland, including 2 patient deaths. This is a more than 3-fold increase over average incidence.

 

Melioidosis, caused by bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei, mainly affects people who have direct contact with contaminated soil and water. Many patients contracting melioidosis have an underlying predisposing condition such as diabetes (most common risk factor), renal and liver disease, and others. Information on melioidosis: see CDC.

Avoid contact with soil/surface water, especially in the case of minor wounds. Skin injuries should be disinfected. Protective clothing when wading through water.
Via ProMED, 12.2.2025

The risk of mosquito borne infection is increased during the current Australian summer season. Various mosquito borne diseases occur in Australia such as:

 

  • Ross River fever (RRF) is the most commonly reported mosquito-borne disease in Australia, averaging around 5’000 infections each year, although this is likely to be an underestimate of the true number. It is widespread in Australia but more commonly found in Queensland, the Northern Territory and the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Ross-River-virus is an arthritogenic alphavirus.
  • Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE) - MVE virus is enzootic (endemic in animals) in freshwater habitats of the Kimberley region of Western Australia and the northern area of the Northern Territory. Occasional outbreaks occur as far south as NSW following the migration of infected birds and with local mosquito populations boosted by rainfall/flooding. While most people with MVE virus are asymptomatic, apparent clinical infection is often severe due to neurological involvement, causing death in approximately 15-30% of cases and residual mental or functional disability in up to half of those who survive. The causative virus belongs to the family of flaviviruses.
  • Dengue - the dengue virus is no longer endemic in Australia but is introduced each year by infected travellers arriving from overseas. Risk of infection is elevated in Queensland or on the Cocoseilande (Throat Islands). 
  • Japanese Encephalitis occurs in Australia. First outbreaks were reported in 2022 in the states of Queenland, New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria - mainly in the Murray valley with over 70 pig farms affected throughout temperate regions of the country. Human cases and deaths had been reported. In the current season 2024/25, only sporadic human cases have been reported so far. The situation in Torres Strait and Cape York Pennisula in north eastern Australia is unclear since surveillance has been stopped since many years.

 

For more details to the diseases and other mosquito borne disease in Australia such as Barma Forest and Kunjin virus (a subtype of West Nile virus) infection, see LINK.

This is a reminder to take mosquito-bite prevention measures in this summer season 24/7.

 

In addition, for travelers to Australia, the Swiss Expert Committee for Travel Medicine (ECMT) recommends a vaccination against JE for high-risk travellers such as:

  • Work / extensive outdoor activities in the affected rural areas
  • Long-term stays (>4 weeks) or during an ongoing outbreak
  • For details, see SOP vaccination Japanese encephalitis (only available in HealthyTravel PRO).
Travelvax, accessed 22.1.2025
Japanese encephalitis virus has been detected in a mosquito sample in Lake Wyangan, New South Wales, collected on 3 December 2024. 

This is a reminder to take mosquito-bite prevention measures in this summer season 24/7.

In addition, for travelers to Australia, the Swiss Expert Committee for Travel Medicine (ECMT) recommends a vaccination against JE for high-risk travellers such as:

  • Work / extensive outdoor activities in the affected rural areas
  • Long-term stays (>4 weeks) or during an ongoing outbreak
  • For details, see SOP vaccination Japanese encephalitis (only available in HealthyTravel PRO)
NSW Health, 7.11.2024

So far this season (2023), 6 cases of Murray Valley Encephalitis (MVE) have been recorded, two of which were fatal. The Kimberley region has been particularly affected. This has been the worst season for MVE since 2012. Other arboviruses are also transmitted in Western Australia: dengue virus, Ross River virus, Japanese encephalitis virus, Barmah Forest virus, Kunjin virus, etc.

Murray Valley encephalitis virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. The risk of contracting and becoming ill is low, but the illness caused by the virus can be severe and possibly fatal.
Initial symptoms include fever, drowsiness, headache, stiff neck, nausea and dizziness. People who experience these symptoms should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Protect yourself optimally around the clock (24/7) against mosquitoes (see factsheet mosquito protection):. If you should have a fever: take medication containing the active ingredient paracetamol and make sure you drink enough fluids. Do not use any medication containing the active ingredient acetylsalicylic acid (e.g. Aspirin®), as this can increase the bleeding tendency in the event of a dengue infection (see also factsheet Dengue).
Government of Western Australia, 14.7.2023
The Australian Health Service of New South Wales (NSW) is urging the public to be vigilant for symptoms of meningococcal disease following the death of one man and 3 new cases. Since the beginning of the year, 19 cases of meningococcal disease have been recorded in New South Wales, with the majority due to the meningococcal B strain of infection. As early as December 2022, NSW reported 29 cases of meningococcal meningitis, also primarily due to meningococcal serogroup B.
Students spending an academic year in Australia, in particular, should have a current meningococcal meningitis vaccination. Swiss recommendation: see Swiss vaccination schedule.
Via ProMED 5.6.2023
The Victorian Health Authority in Australia is warning people in northern Victoria to take extra measures to avoid mosquito bites after a person contracted mosquito-borne Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) while in the Buloke Shire and Swan Hill area. This is the second locally acquired JEV case this mosquito season.
In 2022, more than 40 human JEV cases were reported in the states of News South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Victoria.
Optimal protection against mosquito bites, especially at dusk and at night. Vaccination is recommended especially for:
- Persons who work with pigs or live near or visit pig farms.
- People who work with mosquitoes or the virus itself (laboratory).
The Australian Department of Health recommends vaccination for stays in the Torres Strait region of Australia for:
- Travelers to rural areas.
- Stays in the region of one month or longer.
Australian Govt. Dept. of Health, 7.6.2022

In Queensland, the number of cases with Ross River Virus (RRV) infections is increasing, with over 150 people tested positive on the Sunshine Coast. Due to rainfall and the associated increase in the mosquito population, more people are expected to become ill in the coming weeks.

Ross River virus disease is the most common mosquito-borne infectious disease in Australia; it occurs throughout of the country but is found primarily in Queensland, Victoria, and Western Australia. Transmission occurs through Culex and Aedes mosquitoes. After an acute phase with fever, skin rash, and joint pain, RRV can sometimes cause long-lasting pain in various joints (polyarthritis).

 

Consequences for travelers

Optimal mosquito protection is recommended around the clock (24/7) (see factsheet mosquito and tick bite protection). There is neither a specific medication nor a vaccination.

 

References

Via ProMED, 29.11.2021

General Information

  • Although the public health emergency of international concern for COVID-19 was declared over on 5 May 2023, COVID-19 remains a health threat
  • Adhere to the recommendations and regulations of your host country
  • Check entry requirements of destination country: see regulary updated COVID-19 Travel Regulations Map of IATA (LINK).

Vaccinations for all travellers

 
Risk Area
Factsheet
Flyer
SOP
MAP
Bookmark
See map
  
 
 
 
 

 
Recommendation
All travellers should have completed a basic immunisation according to the Swiss vaccination schedule, LINK.
 

Worldwide
  
 
 
 
 

 
Recommendation

All travellers should have completed a basic immunisation and boosters according to the Swiss vaccination schedule, LINK.

 

 

Worldwide
 
 
 
 

 
Recommendation

All travellers should have completed a basic immunisation and boosters according to the Swiss vaccination schedule, LINK.

 

General information on measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)

Please consult the following FOPH links:

  • Measles
  • Mumps
  • Rubella

MMR_ECTM_Factsheet_layperson_EN.pdf

Worldwide
 
 
 
 

 
Recommendation

Travellers should be immune to chickenpox. Persons between 13 months and 39 years of age who have not had chickenpox and who have not received 2 doses of chickenpox vaccine should receive a booster vaccination (2 doses with minimum interval of 4 weeks), see Swiss vaccination schedule, LINK.

 

Please consult the following link of the FOPH:

 

General information about chickenpox (varicella) and shingles (herpes zoster)

  • Link to the document 

CHICKENPOX_SHINGLES_ECTM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN.pdf

Vaccinations for some travellers

 
Risk Area
Factsheet
Flyer
SOP
MAP
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WHO recommendation
For medical reasons: vaccination is not recommended.
 

 
Country requirement at entry

For administrative reasons, there is the following entry regulation of the country:

  • Passengers arriving within 6 days after leaving or transiting countries on Australia’s list of yellow fever declared places (www.health.gov.au/yellowfever) and not holding a yellow fever vaccination certificate will still be allowed to enter. Upon arrival they will be provided with a Yellow Fever Action Card containing instructions what to do if developing symptoms of yellow fever. Australia’s yellow fever declared places reflects the list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission with these exceptions: Argentina limited to only the Misiones Province and Galapagos islands excluded from Ecuador.

Exempt from this entry requirement:

  • Children younger than 1 year.
  • Passengers transiting Australia if not leaving the transit area.
  • Passengers transiting countries with risk of yellow fever transmission if not having stayed overnight or longer in these countries.
 

  • Yellow fever is a life-threatening viral infection. A highly effective vaccine is available. 
  • Vaccination is strongly recommended for all travellers to regions where yellow fever occurs, even if it is not a mandatory entry requirement of the country.
  • A booster single booster dose is recommended for immuncompetent persons after 10 years.
  • The yellow fever vaccination must be administered by an authorized doctor or center at least ten days before your arrival in the destination country with record in the yellow vaccination booklet ('International Certificate for Vaccination').
  • For travellers who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or who have a condition that leads to immunosuppression, please consult a travel health advisor.

EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_Yellow-fever.pdf

EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_Mosquito-and-tick-bite-protection.pdf

For medical reasons: vaccination is not recommended.

For administrative reasons, there is the following entry regulation of the country:

  • Passengers arriving within 6 days after leaving or transiting countries on Australia’s list of yellow fever declared places (www.health.gov.au/yellowfever) and not holding a yellow fever vaccination certificate will still be allowed to enter. Upon arrival they will be provided with a Yellow Fever Action Card containing instructions what to do if developing symptoms of yellow fever. Australia’s yellow fever declared places reflects the list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission with these exceptions: Argentina limited to only the Misiones Province and Galapagos islands excluded from Ecuador.

Exempt from this entry requirement:

  • Children younger than 1 year.
  • Passengers transiting Australia if not leaving the transit area.
  • Passengers transiting countries with risk of yellow fever transmission if not having stayed overnight or longer in these countries.

ETCM Map: Yellow fever vaccination recommendation in Africa

 

Yellow_fever_vaccination_map_AFRICA.jpg

CDC Map: Yellow fever vaccine recommendations for the Americas since 2025. 

 

 

  • Yellow fever occurs in sub-Saharan Africa and South America and is transmitted by mosquitoes.
  • Disease may be severe in unvaccinated travelers and death may occur in over 50%.
  • A highly effective vaccine is available.
  • Due to potentially severe side effects the vaccine is used with caution in immunocompromised or elderly individuals, as well as in pregnant women.
Yellow fever is an acute viral infection transmitted through the bite of mosquitoes. The disease occurs in sub-Saharan Africa and South America. It is a potentially lethal disease. However, the vaccination offers very high protection.
Yellow fever is endemic in countries of sub-Saharan Africa and South America, and in Panama. Transmission occurs all over the year but may peak in the rainy season. Although the same species of mosquitoes are present, yellow fever has not been found in Asia.
The yellow fever virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of infected daily active Aedes mosquitoes, or Haemagogus species mosquitoes, which are day and night active. Mosquitoes acquire the virus by feeding on infected primates (human or non-human) and then can transmit the virus to other primates (human or non-human). Yellow fever transmission and epidemics are facilitated by the interface of jungle, savannah and urban areas. Humans working in the jungle can acquire the virus and become ill. The virus then can be brought to urban settings by infected individuals and may be transmitted to other people.
Most people infected with yellow fever virus have mild or no symptoms and recover completely. Some people will develop yellow fever illness with onset of symptoms typically 3 to 6 days after infection. Symptoms are unspecific and flu-like (fever, chills, head and body pain). After a brief remission, about 10-20% will develop more severe disease. Severe disease is characterized by high fever, yellow skin and eyes, bleeding, shock and organ failure. About 30 to 60% of patients with severe disease die.
There is no specific medication. Treatment is only supportive and consists of providing fluid and lowering fever. Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, for example ibuprofen or naproxen, should be avoided due to the risk of enhanced bleeding.

As against all mosquito-borne diseases, prevention from mosquito bites is during day and night (see “Insect and tick bite protection” factsheet). The available vaccine is highly efficacious and provides a long-term protection. It is recommended for people aged 9 months or older who are travelling to yellow fever endemic areas. In addition, providing proof of vaccination may be mandatory for entry into certain countries.

The vaccine is a live-attenuated form of the virus. In immunocompetent persons, protection starts about 10 days after the first vaccination. Reactions to yellow fever vaccine are generally mild and include headache, muscle aches, and low-grade fevers.  Side effects can be treated with paracetamol but aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, for example ibuprofen or naproxen, should be avoided.  On extremely rare occasions, people may develop severe, sometimes life-threatening reactions to the yellow fever vaccine – which is why this vaccine is used with caution in immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women and the elderly for safety reasons. Talk to your travel health advisor if you belong to this group.

In 2016, WHO changed from yellow fever booster doses every 10 years to a single dose, which is considered to confer life-long protection. However, this decision was based on limited data and mainly from endemic populations, potentially exposed to natural boosters (through contact with infected mosquitoes), which does not apply to travellers from non-endemic regions. As several experts have raised concerns about the WHO single dose strategy, the Swiss Expert Committee for Travel Medicine recommends a single booster dose ≥10 years (max. 2 doses per life-time) in immunocompetent persons after primo-vaccination before considering life-long immunity.
Yellow Fever Map - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/yellowfever/maps/index.html 
Yellow Fever Info - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/yellowfever/index.html 
Yellow Fever Info - European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/yellow-fever/facts 
Worldwide
 
 
 
  • Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by a virus.
  • The virus is transmitted through sexual contact, but can also be transmitted through blood (products), e.g. when sharing syringes, tattoo needles, etc.
  • There is a safe and very effective vaccine that offers long-lasting protection.
  • The hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all infants and adolescents up to the age of 16 and for risk groups regardless of age.

    HEPATITIS-B_ECTM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN.pdf

    • Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by a virus.
    • The virus is transmitted through sexual contact, but can also be transmitted through blood (products), e.g. when sharing syringes, tattoo needles, etc.
    • There is a safe and very effective vaccine that offers long-lasting protection.
    • The hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all infants and adolescents up to the age of 16 and for risk groups regardless of age. 
    Hepatitis B is caused by a highly contagious virus that affects the liver. The course of the disease varies greatly, with up to a third of those infected showing no symptoms.
    Hepatitis B is found all over the world, but mainly in Asia, the Middle East, Africa and parts of America. In Switzerland, around 0.5 - 0.7 per cent of the population are chronically infected with the hepatitis B virus. Men who have sex with men (MSM) and the age group of the 30 to 59 year olds are most frequently affected, accounting for around two thirds of all acute cases.
    Transmission occurs mainly through contact with bodily fluids of infected persons, especially genital secretions and blood. Accordingly, infection occurs primarily during sexual intercourse (genital, anal, oral) and when sharing syringes. In countries where the virus is more widespread and hygiene conditions are poorer, it can also be transmitted through the use of non-sterile instruments by doctors / dentists or tattooists, as well as through blood transfusions or infusions. Furthermore, infected mothers can transmit the disease to their child during birth.
    One third of newly infected adults show no symptoms. The classic picture of hepatitis B presents itself 1.5 to 6 months after infection with fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and fever. Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes) may also occur. The disease usually heals completely on its own, especially in adults. Around 5-10% of adults with the disease, but 90% of infants, develop chronic hepatitis B. This can lead to liver remodelling (liver cirrhosis) with functional impairment or liver cancer.
    In the first phases of the infection, treatment aims at relieving the symptoms, as the disease usually heals on its own. Chronic hepatitis B can be controlled with antiviral medication, but often without achieving a complete cure. It is important to prevent the infection of close contacts (family members, sexual contacts).
    There are safe and effective vaccines that offer lifelong protection after two to three doses. Vaccination is recommended for infants as part of the combined vaccination programme at 2, 4 and 12 months of age. For adolescents up to and including the age of 15 years, 2 vaccinations are recommended at intervals of 4-6 months. Adolescents aged 16 and over and adults require 3 vaccinations. Persons who would benefit from this vaccine are  people at increased risk, such as healthcare workers; MSM; people with other liver disease and drug users. There is also a combination vaccine with hepatitis A.
    • Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH). Hepatitis B:
      https://www.bag.admin.ch/bag/en/home/krankheiten/krankheiten-im-ueberblick/hepatitis-b.html
    • Hepatitis Switzerland: https://en.hepatitis-schweiz.ch/all-about-hepatitis/hepatitis-b/
    Worldwide
     
     
     

     
    Recommendation

    Vaccination recommendation according to the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health (BAG), see LINK.

    Entry requirement per country, see IATA LINK.

     

    • Covid-19 is a disease that affects the whole body, but mainly shows with respiratory symptoms such as cough and difficulty in breathing. It is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
    • The infection is mainly spread through respiratory droplets and possibly aerosols when infected persons cough, sneeze, speak or sing without wearing a mask.
    • The infection can be prevented very effectively by vaccination and an increasing number of vaccines are now approved and available for protection.
    • Vaccination is recommended according to the Swiss recommendations of the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), see LINK.
    • Furthermore, prevention relies heavily on people wearing face masks, on hand hygiene and on physical distancing (min. 1.5 m) if masks are not worn and people are not vaccinated.

    COVID19_ECTM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN.pdf

    For information, see LINK of the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH)
    Countrywide
      
     
     
     
    • Influenza is common all over the world including sub-tropical and tropical countries.
    • Vaccination offers the best protection. 
    • Vaccination against flu is recommended for all travellers who belong to an “at risk” group such as pregnant travellers, travellers with comorbidities, elderly people (>65 years), or who plan a a high-risk trip (e.g. cruise-ship, pilgrimage).
    • The influenza vaccine does not offer protection against avian flu.

    INFLUENZA_ECTM_Factsheet_EN.pdf

    General informations about seasonal flu (influenza)

    Please consult the following FOPH links:

    • Seasonal flu (influenza)
     

    Countrywide

    Transmission: all year round

     
     
    Japanese encephalitis occurs in this country. The affected areas are the Torres Strait Islands and Cape York Peninsula in north eastern Australia. Cases have been reported in 2022 and 2023 also in the states of New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria, mainly in the Murray valley. See also news section.
    • Viral disease transmitted by night-biting mosquitoes in rural/suburban areas.
    • Very rare in travelers.
    • Mostly mild or without symptoms; severe illness is rare but has a high mortality.
    • Vaccine available for those at increased risk, such as long-term travelers to endemic areas.

      EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_Japanese-Encephalitis.pdf

      EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_Mosquito-and-tick-bite-protection.pdf

      CDC Map: Areas at Risk for Japanese Encephalitis | Japanese Encephalitis Virus | CDC

      EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_IT_Japanese_Encephalitis.pdf

      • Viral disease transmitted by night-biting mosquitoes in rural/suburban areas.
      • Very rare in travelers.
      • Mostly mild or without symptoms; severe illness is rare but has a high mortality.
      • Vaccine available for those at increased risk, such as long-term travelers to endemic areas.
      Japanese encephalitis is caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), a flavivirus, which is spread by mosquitoes. Epidemics of Japanese encephalitis were first described in Japan from the 1870s onward. It is the main cause of viral encephalitis in the Asia-Pacific region.
      JEV is endemic in tropical regions of Eastern and Southern Asia and the Western Pacific regions. Epidemics are reported in these regions in subtropical and temperate climate zones. In 2016, a first autochthonous human case was reported in Angola, Africa. The virus exists naturally in a transmission cycle between mosquitoes, pigs and water birds. Birds may be responsible for the spread of JEV to new geographical areas. Humans mainly become infected in rural or suburban areas, when staying in close proximity to pigs.
      JEV is transmitted through the bite of female Culex mosquitoes (mainly Culex tritaeniorrhynchus), which are active throughout the night, indoors and outdoors. For most travelers to Asia, the risk is very low but varies based on destination, season, length of travel and activities.
      Most people infected are asymptomatic or experience only mild symptoms with fever and headache. About 1/250 people develop severe symptoms after 4-14 days of getting infected, as the infection spreads to the brain, characterized by an abrupt onset of high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, seizures and paralysis. Up to 1 in every 3 persons developing severe symptoms consequently die. Permanent sequelae, such as behavioural changes, muscle weakness, or recurrent seizures occur in 30%–50% of those with encephalitis.
      The diagnosis can be confirmed by serology in cerebrospinal fluid and serum, IgM antibodies usually become detectable 3-8 days after onset of symptoms.
      There is no directed antiviral treatment available. Treatment consists of supportive care to relieve symptoms.
      Mosquito bite prevention from dusk to dawn (Culex are active during the night) – sleeping under a mosquito net or in an air-conditioned room; repellants on exposed skin; wearing long clothes; treating clothes with insecticide. Vaccination is recommended in travelers at increased risk of infection (longer periods of travel in endemic regions, travel during the JEV transmission season, staying in rural areas especially near rice paddies or pig farms and participating in outdoor activities). The inactivated vaccine IXIARO® is given in two doses (ideally spaced 28 days apart, though the second dose can be given as early as 7 days after the first dose) before travel. In case of continuous risk or re-exposure, a booster dose can be given after 12 months, and then every 10 years. For children 12 months to 18 years, the use is "off-label". Reactions to the vaccine are generally mild and may include pain and tenderness at the injection site, headache, muscle aches, and low-grade fever.
      • WHO Factsheet Japanese Encephalitis: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/japanese-encephalitis
      • Solomon et al., Japanese Encephalitis, BMJ 2000: https://jnnp.bmj.com/content/jnnp/68/4/405.full.pdf
      • CDC Japanese Encephalitis: https://www.cdc.gov/japaneseencephalitis/index.html 

      Other health risks

       
      Risk Area
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      Dengue can occur in Queensland or on the Cocoseilande (Throat Islands). 
      • Dengue fever is the world's most common insect-borne infectious disease.
      • Great attention should be paid to mosquito protection during the day!
      • The disease can cause high fever, muscle and joint pain, and skin rashes. In rare cases, bleeding may occur.
      • There is no specific treatment. Vaccination is recommended only for people with evidence of previous dengue infection.
      • For personal safety, we strongly recommend that you inform yourself in detail about dengue.

      EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_Dengue.pdf

      EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_Mosquito-and-tick-bite-protection.pdf

      ECTM_Dengue_Vaccination_Statement_EN_Publication_Sept_2024.pdf

      CDC Map: Distribution of dengue

      • Dengue fever is the world's most common insect-borne infectious disease.
      • Great attention should be paid to mosquito protection during the day!
      • The disease can cause high fever, muscle and joint pain, and skin rashes. In rare cases, bleeding may occur. There is no specific treatment. Vaccination is recommended only for people with evidence of previous dengue infection.
      • For personal safety, we strongly recommend that you inform yourself in detail about dengue.

      Dengue fever is the most common insect-borne infectious disease worldwide. There are 4 known serotypes of dengue virus, so it is possible to be infected with dengue more than once. Approximately 1 in 4 infected individuals develop symptoms of dengue, resulting in high fever, muscle and joint pain, and skin rash. In rare cases, most often after a second infection, life-threatening bleeding and shock (severe drop of blood pressure) may occur.

      Dengue fever occurs in all tropical and subtropical regions between latitudes 35°N and 35°S (see also CDC map: https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/areaswithrisk/around-the-world.html).
      Dengue virus is transmitted mainly by day- and dusk-active mosquitoes, namely Stegomyia (Aedes) aegypti and Stegomyia (Aedes) albopictus. These mosquitoes breed in small water puddles, as they are often found around residential buildings or at industrial zones / waste dumps of human settlements. The main transmission season is the rainy season.

      In 3 out of 4 cases, an infection with the virus remains asymptomatic. After a short incubation period (5-8 days), 1 out of 4 infected people present an abrupt onset of fever, headache, joint, limb and muscle pain, as well as nausea and vomiting. Eye movement pain is also typical. A rash usually appears on the 3rd or 4th day of illness. After 4 to 7 days, the fever finally subsides but fatigue may persist for several days or weeks.

      In rare cases, severe dengue can occur. Particularly susceptible are local children and seniors as well as people who have experienced a prior dengue infection. Tourists extremely rarely present with severe dengue. In the first days, the disease resembles the course of classic dengue fever, but on the 4th/5th day, and usually after the fever has subsided, the condition worsens. Blood pressure drops, and patients complain of shortness of breath, abdominal discomfort, nosebleeds, and mild skin or mucosal hemorrhages. In the most severe cases, life-threatening shock may occur.

      There is no specific treatment for dengue virus infection. Treatment is limited to mitigation and monitoring of symptoms: fever reduction, relief of eye, back, muscle and joint pain, and monitoring of blood clotting and blood volume. Patients with severe symptoms must be hospitalised.

      For treatment of fever or pain, paracetamol or acetaminophen are recommended (e.g. Acetalgin® Dafalgan®). Drugs containing the active ingredient acetylsalicylic acid (e.g. Aspirin®, Alcacyl®, Aspégic®) must be avoided.

      Effective mosquito protection during the day and especially during twilight hours (i.e. sunset) is the best preventive measure:

      1. Clothing: Wear well-covered, long-sleeved clothing and long pants and treat clothing with insecticide beforehand (see factsheet “prevention of arthropod bites”).
      2. Mosquito repellent: Apply a mosquito repellent to uncovered skin several times a day (see factsheet “prevention of arthropod bites”).
      3. Environmental hygiene: Do not leave containers with standing water (coasters for flower pots, etc.) in your environment to avoid mosquito breeding sites.

      For further information, please refer to the factsheet on "Mosquito and tick bite protection".

      Note on the dengue vaccine Qdenga®:

      • Based on the data available, many European countries, as well as the Swiss Expert Committee for Travel Medicine (ECTM), currently recommend vaccination with Qdenga® only for travelers who have evidence of a previous dengue infection and who will be exposed in a region with significant dengue transmission. This is a precautionary decision, since the current data also include the possibility that people who are vaccinated with Qdenga® before a first dengue infection may experience a more severe course of the disease. A consultation with a specialist in tropical and travel medicine is recommended.


      Consistent mosquito protection during the day (see above) is still considered the most important preventive measure against dengue!

      Of note

      • Do not take any products containing the active ingredient acetylsalicylic acid (e.g. Aspirin®, Alcacyl®, Aspégic®) if you have symptoms, as they increase the risk of bleeding in the event of a dengue infection!
      • However, do not stop taking medications containing acetylsalicylic acid if it is already part of your regular treatment for an underlying condition.
      • Do not take any products containing the active ingredient acetylsalicylic acid (e.g. Aspirin®, Alcacyl®, Aspégic®) if you have symptoms, as they increase the risk of bleeding in the event of a dengue infection!
      • However, do not stop taking medications containing acetylsalicylic acid if it is already part of your regular treatment for an underlying condition.
      Dengue Map (Center for Disease Control and Prevention – CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/areaswithrisk/around-the-world.html 
       
       
      • Marburg virus disease is a rare but severe hemorrhagic fever.
      • The disease spreads through contact with infected animals or people.
      • Symptoms can be similar to other tropical diseases
      • There is no licensed treatment or vaccine for Marburg disease, and
      • Please have a look to the factsheet below.

      EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_MARBURG.pdf

      CDC Map: History of Marburg Outbreaks Marburg, Link CDC
      • Marburg virus disease is a rare but severe hemorrhagic fever.
      • The disease spreads through contact with infected animals or people.
      • Symptoms can be similar to other tropical diseases
      • There is no licensed treatment or vaccine for Marburg disease, and
      • Prevention measures are important to follow, see below.
      Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a rare but severe hemorrhagic fever, caused by Marburg virus (MARV). Although MVD is uncommon, it has the potential to cause epidemics with significant case fatality rates (50 to 88%).
      All recorded MVD outbreaks have originated in Africa. Fruit bats are the natural reservoirs for Marburg virus. Caves or mines colonized with bats are an important source of infection.
      The majority of MVD outbreaks have been connected to human entry into bat-infested mines and caves. Transmission occurs by direct contact (through broken skin or mucous membranes) with blood, secretions, and body fluids of an infected animal or human or by indirect contact with contaminated surfaces and materials like clothing, bedding and medical equipment (for instance in healthcare settings). MVD is not an airborne disease, and a person is not contagious before symptoms appear. As a result, if proper infection prevention and control precautions are strictly followed, the risk of infection is regarded as minimal.

      The incubation period (time between infection and onset of symptoms) ranges from a 2 to 21 days (usually 5 to 10 days). The onset of MVD is usually abrupt, with initially non-specific, flu-like symptoms such as a high fever, severe headache, chills and malaise. Rapid worsening occurs within 2–5 days for more than half of patients, marked by gastrointestinal symptoms such as anorexia, abdominal discomfort, severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. As the disease advances, clinical manifestations can become more severe and include liver failure, delirium, shock, bleeding (hemorrhaging), multi-organ dysfunction and death.

       

      In case of symptoms

      If think that you have had an exposure at risk and develop fever with nonspecific symptoms such as chills, headache, muscle pain, malaise or abdominal pain:

      • you should separate yourself from others (isolate) immediately and
      • immediately seek medical advice by contacting the in-country hotline by phone or contact a tropical institute or university hospital infectious disease unit.
      • alert the healthcare providers of your recent travel to an area with a Marburg outbreak.
      Currently, there are no licensed treatments for Marburg disease. Treatment is limited to supportive care (rest, hydration, managing oxygen status and blood pressure, treatment of secondary infections). Without supportive care, high proportion of infected people die.

      The risk for travellers is  very low if the below precautions are followed, but it is high for family members and caregivers who have contact with sick people.

       

      General precautions during travel to affected areas:

      • Wash your hands regularly and carefully using soap and water (or alcohol gel if soap is unavailable).
      • Avoid contact with sick people who have symptoms, such as fever, muscle pain, and rash.
      • Avoid contact with blood and other body fluids
      • Avoid visiting healthcare facilities in the MVD-affected areas for nonurgent medical care or non-medical reasons.
      • Avoid contact with dead bodies or items that have been in contact with dead bodies, participating in funeral or burial rituals, or attending a funeral or burial. 
      • Avoid handling, cooking, or eating bush/wild meat (meat of wild/feral mammals killed for food).
      • Wash and peel fruit and vegetables before consumption.
      • Avoid visiting mines or bat caves and contact with all wild animals; alive or dead, particularly bats.
      • If you decide to visit mines or caves inhabited by fruit bat colonies, wear gloves and other appropriate protective clothing, including masks and eye protection.
      • Practice safer sex.
      • Swiss Federal Office of Public Health: LINK
      • European Center for Disease Control and Prevention (ECDC): Marburg virus disease
      • US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): About Marburg Disease
      • World Health Organization: Marburg Virus Disease
      Woldwide
       
       
      • Mpox is a viral disease that typically causes a rash, swollen lymph nodes and fever.
      • An emerging variant is spreading rapidly in eastern D.R. Congo and neighbouring countries, leading the WHO to declare a new Public Health Emergency International (PHEIC) in August 2024.
      • Close physical contact (sexual or non-sexual) is the main route of transmission.
      • The disease is usually mild. Children, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk of complications.
      • Take general precautions (see factsheet) to prevent the disease.
      • There is a vaccination against Mpox, but it is currently only available for people at high risk.

      EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_MPOX_EN.pdf

      WHO Map: 2025 Monkeypox Outbreak Global Map
      • Mpox is a viral disease that typically causes a rash, swollen lymph nodes and fever.
      • An emerging variant is spreading rapidly in eastern D.R. Congo and neighboring countries prompting a new WHO declaration of a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), as of August 14th 2024.
      • Close physical contact (sexual or non-sexual) is the main mode of transmission.
      • The disease generally follows a mild course. Children, pregnant women, and people with weak immune systems are the most at risk of complications.
      • Vaccination against mpox is available, but limited to groups at high risk of exposure. 
      Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is a disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, a virus from the same family as the virus that causes smallpox. It is a viral zoonotic disease, which means it can spread from animals to humans. It can also spread between people.

      Mpox has been commonly found in West and Central Africa for many years where the suspected reservoir - small mammals - is endemic. There are two types of Monkeypox virus called ‘clades’ that cause the disease mpox - clade I in Central Africa and clade II in West Africa. Since the end of smallpox vaccination campaigns in the early 1980’s, cases of mpox have increased, slowly at first and significantly in the last 5-10 years, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

       

      In 2022, a new emerging subclade of clade II was responsible for a global epidemic that spread mainly through sexual contact among men who have sex with men. It resulted in the first public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) declared by the WHO until 2023. Although the clade II epidemic is now under control, this virus variant continues to circulate worldwide.


      In 2024, the continued spread of mpox clade I in endemic regions of Central Africa, particularly in the DRC, and the emergence of a new subclade Ib in Eastern DRC and neighboring countries have raised global concern and prompted the WHO to declare a PHEIC for the second time in two years. The current geographical spread of the mpox clade Ib variant occurs via commercial routes through sexual contact (e.g. sex workers), followed by local transmission in households and other settings (which is becoming increasingly important).

      Animal to human transmission
      Mpox can spread from animal to human when they come into direct contact with an infected animal (rodents or primates).

       

      Human to human transmission
      Mpox can be spread from person to person through close physical contact (sexual and non-sexual contact) with someone who has symptoms of mpox. Skin and mucous membrane lesions, body fluids, and scabs are particularly infectious. A person can also become infected by touching or handling clothing, bedding, towels, or objects such as eating utensils/dishes that have been contaminated by contact with a person with symptoms. Household members, family caretakers, and sexual partners of a confirmed case of mpox are at higher risk for infection as are health care workers who treat a case without adequate personal protection.

      The incubation period (time between infection and onset of symptoms) ranges from a few days up to 3 weeks. Mpox causes a rash / skin eruption that can be painful associated with swollen lymph nodes and fever. Fever may start already before the rash phase. Other symptoms include muscle aches, back pain, and fatigue. The rash may be localized or generalized, with few or hundreds of skin lesions. It mainly affects the face, the trunk and the palms of hand and soles of the feet. It can also be present in genital areas and on mucous membranes such as in the mouth and throat. Symptoms usually last 2 to 4 weeks and the person remains contagious until all lesions have healed (once the cabs have fallen off).

      Complications include secondary bacterial infections, infections of the lung and brain and involvement of other organs, still birth and others. Children, pregnant women, and people with weak immune systems are at higher risk to develop a severe form of mpox.

      The majority of person with mpox recovers spontaneously and do not need specific antiviral treatment. Care management consists of relieving pain and other symptoms and preventing complications (e.g., superinfection). Several antiviral treatments are studied in various countries and may be used in trials or in clinical situations according to the recommendations of national medical societies.

       

      In case of symptoms: 

      • Seek medical attention immediately
      • If you are diagnosed with mpox
        • Please stay at home (isolate yourself) until your mpox rash has healed and a new layer of skin has formed. Staying away from other people and not sharing things you have touched with others will help prevent the spread of mpox. People with mpox should regularly clean and disinfect the spaces they use to limit household contamination.
        • Wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitiser containing at least 60% alcohol.
        • You should not have sex while symptomatic and while you have lesions or symptoms. Use condoms for 12 weeks after infection. This is a precaution to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to a partner.
        • For more information on what do if you are sick, see CDC LINK.

      General precautions:

      • Worldwide:
        • avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have or may have mpox or people who have a rash (e.g., pimples, blisters, scabs).
        • Wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitiser containing at least 60% alcohol.
        • Avoid touching potentially contaminated personal items such as cups, bedding/clothing, towels or sharing eating utensils/cups, food or drink with a person who has, or may have mpox.
        • Avoid sex with sick persons; use of condoms for up to 12 weeks if you sexual partner have had mpox.
        • Follow advice of local authorities.
      • When travelling to endemic / epidemic areas in Africa, in addition to above mentioned general precautions: 
        • Avoid contact with and animals in areas where mpox regularly occurs.
        • Avoid eating or preparing meat from wild animals (bushmeat) or using products (creams, lotions, powders) derived from wild animals.

      Vaccination:

      There are several vaccines against mpox (e.g. Jynneos®, manufacture Bavarian Nordic). The Bavarian Nordic vaccine was originally developed to fight against smallpox, but offers a cross-protection against mpox. In Switzerland, the Jynneos® vaccine has been licensed by Swissmedic since 2024. Groups at risk (e.g., men who have sex with men or transgender people with multiple sex partners) are eligible for vaccination since 2022 and this recommendation remains unchanged (see FOPH recommendations). In light of the epidemiological situation in Africa in 2024, the Swiss Expert Committee for Travel Medicine recommends vaccination against mpox for professionals who are / will be in contact with suspect mpox patients or animals in endemic/epidemic regions or who work in a laboratory with the virus (for updates, see news).

      The risk to the general population and travelers (tourists) is considered extremely low if the above-mentioned general precautions are followed and vaccination is not recommended.

      • Seek medical attention immediately.
      • Mpox is not a sexual transmitted disease in the strict sense, physical contact with a person with symptoms of mpox (rash at any stage) is sufficient to transmit the disease. Condoms do not protect you from getting mpox!
      • Swiss Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH)                                                            
      • World Health Organisation: WHO FAQ
      • European Center of Disease Control and Prevention (ECDC)
      • US Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
      Worldwide
       
       
       
      • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a group of viral, bacterial and parasitic infections; while many are treatable, some can lead to complications, serious illness or chronic infection.
      • STIs are increasing worldwide.
      • Read the following fact sheet for more information.

      EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_DE_STI.pdf

      EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_DE_HIV-AIDS.pdf

      • Geschlechtskrankheiten sind ein weltweit verbreitetes Gesundheitsproblem und können durch Prävention, regelmässiges Testen und Behandlung in den Griff bekommen werden.
      • Das Wissen um Risiken sowie Safer-Sex-Praktiken inklusive Kondomgebrauch sind wichtig. Falls Sie mehr dazu erfahren wollen, wie Sie sich während der Reise optimal schützen können, besprechen Sie dies mit einer Fachperson.
      • Hatten Sie eine Risikosituation, ist es wichtig mit einer Fachperson so rasch wie möglich Rücksprache zu halten, um zu erörtern, ob eine HIV-Post-Expositions-Prophylaxe (PEP) durchgeführt werden soll, um eine Ansteckung mit HIV zu verhindern.
      • Im Nachgang einer Risikosituation ist es wichtig sich auf Geschlechtskrankheiten testen zu lassen. Auch dann, wenn Sie keine Symptome haben.
      Reisende, die Gelegenheitssex haben, sind einem erhöhten Risiko ausgesetzt, sich mit sexuell übertragbaren Infektionen, sogenannten Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), einschliesslich HIV, anzustecken. Ein Auslandaufenthalt, wobei man auch neue Menschen kennen lernt, kann damit verbunden sein, sich anders zu verhalten und mehr Risiken einzugehen, als man dies zu Hause tun würde. Es ist wichtig daran zu denken, dass ungeschützter Sex und mehrere neue Sexualpartner ein Risiko für Geschlechtskrankheiten darstellen. Geschlechtskrankheiten können unter Umständen schwere Komplikationen verursachen und zudem auf weitere Partner*innen übertragen werden, sofern diese nicht rechtzeitig bemerkt und behandelt werden. Sind Sie nicht sicher, ob es sich um eine Risikosituation handelt, dann hilft der 'Risk-Check' von Love Live weiter.
      Geschlechtskrankheiten sind Infektionen, die durch sexuellen Kontakt (vaginaler, analer oder oraler Sex) übertragen werden. Sie werden durch mehr als 30 verschiedene Bakterien, Viren oder Parasiten verursacht, die in oder auf Ihrem Körper vorkommen. Es ist auch möglich, dass gleichzeitig mehr als eine STI gleichzeitig übertragen wird. Einige bedeutendsten STIs sind HIV (Informationsblatt HIV-AIDS), Hepatitis B, das humane Papillomavirus (HPV), Herpes simplex (HSV), Syphilis, Chlamydien und Gonorrhö.
      Geschlechtskrankheiten treten weltweit auf und können jeden und jede treffen, unabhängig von Alter, Geschlecht oder auch der sexuellen Orientierung. STIs kommen in vielen Ländern mit schwächerem Gesundheitssystem häufiger vor.
      Geschlechtskrankheiten werden in der Regel durch ungeschützten vaginalen, oralen oder analen Geschlechtsverkehr übertragen. Sie können aber auch durch andere intime Kontakte weitergegeben werden, wie z. B. Herpes und HPV, die durch Hautkontakt/Küssen übertragen werden. Andere können auch auf nicht sexuellem Wege übertragen werden, z.B. über Blut. Viele Geschlechtskrankheiten - darunter Syphilis, Hepatitis B, HIV, Chlamydien, Tripper, Herpes und HPV - können auch während der Schwangerschaft und bei der Geburt von der Mutter auf das Kind übertragen werden.
      • Brennen oder Juckreiz im Genitalbereich
      • Schmerzhaftes oder häufiges Wasserlösen oder auch Schmerzen im Unterleib
      • Ungewöhnlicher Ausfluss aus dem Penis oder der Vagina
      • Wunden, Rötungen, Bläschen im Mund/Lippen oder Genitalbereich sowie Warzen im Intimbereich
      • Manchmal auch Fieber (eher selten)

      Wichtig: Eine STI kann auch ohne oder mit nur leichten Symptomen auftreten. Auch wenn Sie sich dessen nicht bewusst sind, können Sie andere anstecken. Deshalb ist es wichtig sich testen zu lassen.

      Geschlechtskrankheiten können bei einer körperlichen Untersuchung oder durch die Untersuchung von Urin, einer Wunde, eines Bläschens oder eines Abstrichs aus der Vagina, dem Penis oder dem Anus diagnostiziert werden. Bluttests können bei der Diagnose helfen. Auch wenn Sie keine Symptome haben, sollten Sie mit ihrer Ärztin, ihrem Arzt sprechen, wenn Sie im Ausland ungeschützten Geschlechtsverkehr hatten. Denn eine frühzeitige Erkennung und Behandlung ist wichtig, um eine Errergerübertragung und Komplikationen durch unbehandelte STIs zu verhindern.
      Viele Geschlechtskrankheiten sind heilbar, andere wie z.B. HIV jedoch nicht und bedeuten, dass lebenslang Medikamente eingenommen werden müssen, damit es nicht zu Komplikationen kommt. Beispielsweise können mit Antibiotika bakteriell verursachte STIs geheilt werden. Eine frühzeitige Behandlung verringert zudem das Risiko von Komplikationen. Denn unbehandelt können einige STIs langfristig unter Umständen zu Gesundheitsproblemen führen, wie z.B. zu Unfruchtbarkeit, Geburtskomplikationen und einigen Arten von Krebs. Wenn eine schwangere Frau eine STI hat, kann dies zu Gesundheitsproblemen beim Baby führen. Auch Sexualpartner sollten gleichzeitig behandelt werden, um eine erneute Infektion zu verhindern (Ping-Pong-Übertragung).
      • Beachten Sie die Safer Sex Regeln von Love Live. Dazu gehört auch bei jedem Anal- oder Vaginalverkehr Kondome zu verwenden.
      • Denken Sie daran, dass es bei Oralverkehr auch zu Übertragungen von STIs kommen kann.  
      • Lassen Sie sich impfen! Es gibt Impfstoffe zum Schutz vor HPV, Hepatitis A und Hepatitis B.
      • Hatten Sie eine Risikosituation, ist es wichtig mit einer Fachperson so rasch wie möglich Rücksprache zu halten, um zu erörtern, ob eine HIV-Post-Expositions-Prophylaxe (PEP) durchgeführt werden soll, um eine HIV-Infektion zu verhindern. Am wirksamsten ist eine HIV-PEP innerhalb weniger Stunden danach.
      • Es gibt auch weitere Präventionsmassnahmen für spezielle Situationen (Präexpositionsprophylaxe HIV-PrEP). Sprechen Sie mit einer damit erfahrenen Fachperson vor Abreise darüber.
      • Denken Sie daran, dass Alkohol oder Drogen zu erhöhtem Risikoverhalten führen.
      • Denken Sie daran, dass Sie eine weitere Person/bekannter Partner*in bei ungeschütztem Sex anstecken können, sofern bei Ihnen eine unbehandelte STI vorliegt.
      • Menschen mit einer neu diagnostizierten STI sind angehalten ihre früheren Sexualpartner*innen zu informieren, damit auch sie behandelt werden können.

      Durch Bakterien oder Parasiten hervorgerufen
      Alle diese Krankheiten können geheilt werden. Wichtig ist dabei, frühzeitig zu testen und umgehend zu therapieren, um Komplikationen und v.a. weitere Übertragungen zu vermeiden.

      • Syphilis
        Auch bekannt als Lues. Sie wird durch das Bakterium Treponema pallidum verursacht. Das erste Anzeichen ist eine schmerzlose Wunde an den Genitalien, im Mund, auf der Haut oder im Rektum, die hochgradig ansteckend ist und nach 3 bis 6 Wochen spontan abklingt. Da diese schmerzlos ist, nehmen nicht alle Patienten*innen diese Läsion wahr. Oft heilt diese Infektion jedoch nicht von selbst aus. In der zweiten Phase können Hautausschlag, Halsschmerzen und Muskelschmerzen auftreten. Unbehandelt kann die Krankheit im Verborgenen (latent) bleiben, ohne dass Symptome auftreten. Etwa ein Drittel der Infizierten mit unbehandelter Syphilis entwickelt im Verlauf Komplikationen. Diese Spätform wird als  sogenannt tertiäre Syphilis bezeichnet . In diesem Stadium kann die Krankheit alle Organe befallen: am häufigsten das Gehirn, die Nerven und die Augen. Die Infektion kann während der Schwangerschaft auf den Fötus und bei der Geburt auf das Kind übertragen werden.

      • Chlamydia trachomatis
        Chlamydien können ungewöhnlichen Ausfluss aus dem Penis oder der Vagina, Unbehagen beim Wasserlösen und Unterleibsschmerzen verursachen. Oft treten keine Symptome auf. Unbehandelt können sie zu Unfruchtbarkeit führen und die Krankheit kann auf Sexualpartner*innen übertragen werden. Die Bakterien können auch während der Schwangerschaft auf den Fötus, oder während der Geburt auf das Kind übertragen werden und Augeninfektionen oder Lungenentzündungen verursachen.

      • Gonorrhoe
        Auch bekannt als Tripper. Zu den häufigsten Symptomen gehören Ausfluss aus der Vagina oder dem Penis und schmerzhaftes Wasserlassen. Symptome müssen aber nicht immer auftreten. Sowohl bei Männern als auch bei Frauen kann Gonorrhoe auch den Mund, den Rachen, die Augen und den Anus infizieren und sich auf das Blut und die Gelenke ausbreiten, wo sie in eine schwere Krankheit übergehen kann. Bleibt sie unbehandelt, kann sie eine Beckenentzündung verursachen, die zu chronischen Beckenschmerzen und Unfruchtbarkeit führen kann. Die Krankheit kann während der Schwangerschaft auf den Fötus übertragen werden.

      • Weitere bakterielle STIs: Mykoplasmen und Ureaplasmen. Diese können ebenfalls behandelt werden.

      • Trichomoniasis
        Sie wird durch einen Parasiten verursacht, der mit einer einzigen Dosis eines Antibiotikums behandelt werden kann. Trichomoniasis kann bei Frauen einen übel riechenden Scheidenausfluss, Juckreiz im Genitalbereich und schmerzhaftes Wasserlassen verursachen. Bei Männern treten in der Regel weniger oder keine Symptome auf. Zu den Komplikationen gehört das Risiko einer vorzeitigen Entbindung bei schwangeren Frauen. Um eine Reinfektion zu verhindern, sollten beide Sexualpartner behandelt werden.

      Durch Viren hervorgerufen

      • HIV/AIDS - siehe Informationsblatt HIV-AIDS

      • Herpes simplex Virus
        Im Lippen-Mundbereich, auch bekannt als Fieberbläschen, ist nicht heilbar. Herpes kann aber mit Medikamenten bei akuten Beschwerden kontrolliert werden. Die Symptome sind in der Regel schmerzhafte, wässrige Hautbläschen und finden sich an oder um die Genitalien, den Anus oder den Mund. Nach der Erstinfektion ruht das Virus im Körper und die Symptome können über Jahre hinweg wieder auftreten. Schwangere Frauen können die Infektion an ihre Neugeborenen weitergeben, was zu einer bedrohlichen Infektion führen kann.

      • Virale Hepatitis (siehe auch Hepatitis Schweiz)
        • Hepatitis A (HAV)
          Hepatitis A ist eine durch Impfung vermeidbare Leberinfektion, die durch das Hepatitis-A-Virus verursacht wird. Das Hepatitis-A-Virus findet sich im Stuhl und im Blut infizierter Personen. Hepatitis A kann durch verunreinigtes Wasser und Lebensmittel sowie bei anal-oralen sexuellen Aktivitäten übertragen werden. Die Patienten*innen leiden an einer akuten und oft schweren Erkrankung, erholen sich aber allermeist spontan.
        • Hepatitis B (HBV)
          Das Hepatitis-B-Virus wird durch sexuelle Kontakte sowie durch den Kontakt mit anderen Körperflüssigkeiten, wie z.B. Blut, übertragen. Zur Übertragung kann es z.B. auch bei medizinischen Eingriffen oder Brennen eines Tatoos unter nicht optimalen hygienischen Bedingungen kommen. Hepatitis B kann eine schwere Leberinfektion verursachen, die sowohl zu einer sofortigen Erkrankung, als auch zu einer lebenslang andauernden Infektion führen kann mit möglicher Folge einer dauerhaften Lebervernarbung (Zirrhose) und Krebs. Schwangere Frauen mit Hepatitis B können das Virus während der Geburt auf ihr Kind übertragen. Zu Beginn der Infektion haben Sie möglicherweise keine Symptome.  Das Virus kann auf Sexualpartner*innen übertragen werden. Hepatitis B kann mit antiviralen Medikamenten behandelt werden, ist aber nur selten heilbar. Eine Impfung kann eine Hepatitis-B-Infektion verhindern.
        • Hepatitis C (HCV)
          In den meisten Fällen wird Hepatitis C durch den Kontakt mit infiziertem Blut übertragen. Seltener kann es durch analen Sexualkontakt oder von der Mutter auf das Kind während der Schwangerschaft und Geburt übertragen werden. Die meisten Infizierten sind sich ihrer Infektion nicht bewusst, weil sie keine Symptome entwickeln, aber diese chronische Infektion kann zu Leberzirrhose und Krebs führen. Hepatitis C kann behandelt werden, eine Impfung gibt es nicht.

      • Humanes Papillomavirus (HPV)
        HPV ist die häufigste Geschlechtskrankheit. Es gibt eine Vielzahl verschiedener HPV-Typen, und einige von ihnen können Genital-, Anal- und Mundwarzen sowie Gebärmutterhals-, Penis- oder Rachenkrebs verursachen. Die Symptome können auch noch Jahre nach dem Sex mit einer infizierten Person auftreten. Zwei verfügbare Impfstoffe schützen gegen die wichtigsten HPV-Typen, die Gebärmutterhals-, Penis- oder Analkrebs verursachen.

      • Zika - siehe Informationsblatt Zika
        In den meisten Fällen wird es vor allem durch Stechmücken übertragen. Es kann aber auch sexuell übertragen werden. Eine Ansteckung mit Zika während der Schwangerschaft kann bei dem sich entwickelnden Fötus Geburtsfehler wie Mikrozephalie (kleiner Kopf mit neurologischen Ausfällen) verursachen. Die einzige Möglichkeit, eine sexuelle Übertragung des Virus während der Schwangerschaft zu verhindern, besteht darin, Vorsichtsmassnahmen (Kondome) zu treffen oder Sex (mindestens 2 Monate nach der Rückkehr) mit jemandem zu vermeiden, der kürzlich in ein Risikogebiet gereist ist, auch wenn der Reisende keine Symptome hat.
      • Love Life: www.lovelife.ch 
      • Sexuelle Gesundheit Schweiz: www.sexuelle-gesundheit.ch 
      • Hepatitis Schweiz: https://hepatitis-schweiz.ch/formen/was-ist-hepatitis 
      • World Health Organization (WHO). Factsheets. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 14 June 2019: www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/sexually-transmitted-infections-(stis) 
      • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Factsheet: Information for Teens and Young Adults: Staying Healthy and Preventing STDs (2017): www.cdc.gov/std/life-stages-populations/stdfact-teens.htm 
      • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). How You Can Prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases: www.cdc.gov/std/prevention/ 
      • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Sexual Transmission and Prevention. Zika Virus: www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/protect-yourself-during-sex.html 
      • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Zika and Pregnancy; Pregnant Women and Zika (March 2021): www.cdc.gov/pregnancy/zika/protect-yourself.html 
        
       
       
       

      There is a risk of arthropod-borne diseases other than malaria, dengue, chikungunya or zika in sub-/tropical regions, and some areas of Southern Europe. These include the following diseases [and their vectors]:

      • in Europe
        • Borreliosis, FSME (= tick-borne encephalitis), rickettsiosis [ticks]
        • Leishmaniasis [sand flies]
        • West-Nile fever [mosquitoes]
      • in Africa
        • Rickettsiosis, in particular African tick bite fever [ticks]
        • Leishmaniasis [sand flies]
        • African trypanosomiasis = sleeping sickness [tsetse flies]
        • West-Nile fever [mosquitoes]
      • in Asia 
        • Scrub typhus [mites]
        • Rickettsiosis [fleas or ticks]
        • Leishmaniasis [sand flies]
        • West-Nile fever [mosquitoes]
        • Crimea-Congo-hemorrhagic fever [ticks]
      • in North and Latin America  
        • Rickettsioses and in particular Rocky Mountain spotted fever [ticks]
        • Leishmaniasis and Carrion's disease [sand flies]
        • American trypanosomiasis = Chagas disease [triatomine bugs]
        • West Nile fever [mosquitoes]
        
       
       
       
      • There are other important travel related health risks such as diarrhoea, road traffic accidents, air pollution and more.
      • For more information, see the section "Healthy Travelling".

      EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_Rabies.pdf

      Viral infections transmitted by mosquitoes - protection through mosquito bite prevention

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