29-02-2024
NPHC Reminder for Travellers
On Rare Diseases Day, observed on the last day of February, the National Public Health Centre (NPHC) aims to draw travellers` attention to rare infectious diseases that are specific to some countries of the world. Although most rare diseases are genetic and persist throughout one's lifetime, with symptoms not necessarily appearing immediately, it's important to note that rare imported infectious diseases contracted during travel also fall within this category. Find out what the diseases are, which countries are at risk and how to prepare for your trip in the following article.
Rare diseases are defined as those affecting no more than 5 in 10 000 (or 1 in 2 000) people. Rare diseases in Europe include viral haemorrhagic fevers (Ebola, Marburg, Lassa, Crimean-Congo, etc.), mosquito-borne diseases (West Nile fever, Zika virus infection, malaria, dengue, chikungunya, etc.) and other diseases), zoonoses (tularaemia, leptospirosis, brucellosis, listeriosis, etc.), Legionnaires' disease, food-borne infections (botulism, typhoid fever), vaccine-controlled infections (tetanus, diphtheria, congenital rubella syndrome, rabies, polio, etc.).
Diseases have no borders
Travelling internationally poses a real risk of importing uncommon or eradicated diseases into one's home country. While mosquito-borne diseases may not be prevalent in Lithuania, they pose a significant global concern. For instance, as of 2023, 34 countries in Africa and 13 countries in Central and South America are either endemic for, or have regions that are endemic for yellow fever.
It's crucial to note that yellow fever vaccination is mandatory in some countries and recommended in others. Certain countries around the world require an International Certificate of Vaccination or Preventive Measures as proof of yellow fever vaccination from all travellers, or specifically from those coming from or transiting through infected areas. The yellow fever vaccine provides lifelong protection, but must be administered at least 10 days before entry into the intended country.
Since 2002, Lithuania, like the rest of Europe, has been considered polio-free, meaning there is no risk of contracting polio within Lithuania, as the virus is not in circulation. Nevertheless, as long as the virus persists globally, there remains a risk of imported polio cases and polio transmission due to decrease in vaccination coverage. Poliomyelitis is an acute viral disease affecting the central nervous system and causing flaccid paralysis. Vaccination is key to protection. In Lithuania, children are vaccinated in accordance with the Preventive Vaccination ScheduleforChildren of the Republic of Lithuania. The vaccination schedule consists of five doses of the vaccine given to children aged 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 18 months and 6-7 years.
Verify Requirements with Your Destination
The risk of infection during travel depends on various factors, including the destination, sanitary conditions, living conditions, and traveller behaviour. When heading to foreign countries, should be aware of the diseases found in the destination countries and necessary precautions. If you are travelling with children, make sure they have been vaccinated in accordance with the Vaccination Schedule.
To check whether vaccination against certain diseases is required or recommended in the country you are travelling to, and what measures you need to take, access the country-specific information at https://nvsc.lrv.lt/skiepai-keliautojams