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In 2024 and as of 2 October 2024, 18 countries in Europe have reported 1’202 locally acquired human cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) infection with known place of infection. The earliest and latest date of onset were respectively on 1 March 2024 and 26 September 2024.
Locally acquired cases were reported by Italy (422), Greece (202), Spain (114), Albania (102), Hungary (101), Romania (71), Serbia (53), Austria (34), Türkiye (30), France (27), Croatia (20), Germany (8), Slovenia (5), Kosovo (4), Slovakia (4), Bulgaria (2), North Macedonia (2) and Czechia (1).
In Europe, 88 deaths were reported by Greece (31), Italy (16), Albania (13), Romania (10), Spain (10), Bulgaria (2), Serbia (2), Türkiye (2), France (1) and North Macedonia (1).
Case numbers reported this year are above the mean monthly case count for the past 10 years. During the same period in 2023, 681 cases had been reported. However, numbers are lower than in 2018, when 1 728 cases had been reported by this time of year.
Distribution of locally acquired human West Nile virus infections in 2024 till 2 October 2024:
Of note, further regions of infection were reported in 2023.
The following precautions are recommended:
- Protect yourself against mosquito bites during the day and at night (see factsheet mosquito and tick bite protection).
- Do not touch sick or dead birds, as they may also be infected.
- If you have visited a West Nile fever transmission area, do not donate blood for at least 28 days after returning.
On 8 August 2024, three additional autochthonous cases of dengue have been reported in the Pyrénées, Orientales, Lozère and Gard departments.
On 2 August 2024, an autochthonous case of dengue in a person living in La Colle-sur-Loup, Alpes-Maritimes department, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. This is the first locally acquired dengue case in the region in 2024. Recently, a second case was reported from the same region.
Overall, France has reported six locally acquired dengue cases in 2024.
Prevention: Optimal mosquito bite protection 24/7, also in cities (during the day against dengue).
In case of fever, apply paracetamol products and hydration. If you have a fever, avoid taking medications containing acetylsalicylic acid (e.g., Aspirin®), as this can increase the risk of bleeding during 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.
Note on vaccination against dengue fever with Qdenga®:
- The Swiss Expert Committee for Travel Medicine (ECTM) recommends a vaccination with Qdenga® only for travelers from 6 years old who have evidence of previous dengue infection and who will be exposed in a region with significant dengue transmission. For details, see ECTM Statement.
On 31 July 2024, France reported a confirmed, autochthonous case of chikungunya virus (CHIKV) disease in Île-de-France with suspected exposure in Paris (Paris Department) and Gennevilliers (Hauts-de-Seine Department). The case had the onset of symptoms on 18 July 2024. Since 1 May and as of 30 July 2024, nine imported chikungunya cases have been reported in France.
On 2 August 2024, the Alpes-Maritimes department reported its first locally acquired case of dengue in France for the 2024 season.
General precautions:
- Mass events can favor gastrointestinal and respiratory infections, therefore: careful personal and food hygiene.
- The risk of accidents can also be increased (beware of binge drinking!).
- To avoid sexually transmitted diseases (HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, mpox, etc.): Safer sexual practices (condoms).
- COVID-19: Control, entry and return regulations, see IATA LINK.
Recommended vaccinations and other health risks:
- See country page France.
- Important! Due to several measles outbreaks in Europe: All visitors should be immune to measles!
- Vaccination against meningococcal disease may be considered.
Diseases transmitted by mosquitoes and ticks:
- Dengue fever: In 2023, locally acquired dengue cases were reported for the first time in the greater Paris area (Ile de France). Local dengue cases have been recorded in the southern departments of France for a few years now.
- West Nile virus, leishmaniasis (Mediterranean region) and tick-borne encephalitis are endemic in some parts of the country.
- It is strongly recommended to protect yourself against mosquito and tick bites around the clock throughout the country, including the cities.
This tragic case demonstrates the importance of being informed about rabies and acting quickly in the event of a bite or scratch by a mammal in a rabies-endemic country.
Prevention: Avoid contact with animals! Do not feed animals either! Pre-exposure vaccination (2 injections and a booster after 1 year) is recommended especially for travelers with increased individual risk (traveling with two-wheelers, to remote areas, long-term stays, small children, cave explorers, contact with bats, etc.).
Behavior after exposure: After an animal bite/scratch: Immediately wash the wound with running water and soap for 15 minutes, then disinfect and in any case visit a good medical facility as soon as possible for follow-up vaccination!
For more information: see flyer rabies.
An outbreak of 4 autochthonous (locally transmitted) cases of dengue fever was detected in Gardanne in the department of Bouches-du-Rhône. Symptoms of the cases occurred between the second half of July and early August 2023.
At least 47 autochthonous cases were recorded in France in 2022. The affected regions were Occitania (9 cases) and Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur (36 cases).
Protect yourself against ticks during outdoor activities (see Mosquito Protection Factsheet). Vaccination is recommended when staying in endemic areas. Complete basic immunization requires three doses of vaccine. Temporary protection exists after only two doses of vaccination. These first two vaccinations are usually given one month apart. The third vaccination is given 5-12 months after the second dose, depending on the vaccine. A booster vaccination is indicated after 10 years.
After recreational activities: Always examine their body for ticks or tick bites. If redness occurs after tick bite: Consult a physician to rule out Lyme disease, which would require antibiotic treatment.
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
All travellers should have completed a basic immunisation and boosters according to the Swiss vaccination schedule, LINK.
All travellers should have completed a basic immunisation and boosters according to the Swiss vaccination schedule, LINK.
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.
Vaccinations for some travellers
- Hepatitis B is a viral liver infection that is transmitted via contaminated blood or via sexual contact.
- A safe and very effective vaccine is available that affords life-long protection.
- Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all young people and at-risk travellers, especially if:
- You travel regularly or spend long periods of time abroad.
- You are at risk of practicing unsafe sex.
- You might undergo medical or dental treatment abroad, or undertake activities that may put you at risk of acquiring hepatitis B (tattoos, piercing, acupuncture in unsafe conditions).
- Tick-borne encephalitis is a viral infection that is transmitted by ticks. It is often referred to by the German name and abbreviation "Frühsommer meningoenzephalitis" (FSME).
- Tick-borne encephalitis occurs in certain forested areas in Europe through to the Far East.
- A safe and effective vaccine is available that is recommended for all stays in endemic areas.
EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_DE_TBE.pdf
EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_Mosquito-and-tick-bite-protection.pdf
- 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.
- 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.
Other health risks
- Schistosomes are parasitic worms that infect humans while bathing or walking in fresh water ponds, lakes, or slow-flowing rivers.
- Avoid bathing, washing, or walking in fresh water in areas endemic for schistosomiasis, also called bilharzia.
- Consult a general practitioner or a specialist in travel and tropical medicine after suspected skin contact with fresh water during a trip.
- Specific diagnostic tests and an effective treatment are available, which can prevent long-term complications.
- Schistosomes are parasitic worms that infect humans while bathing or walking in fresh water ponds, lakes, or slow-flowing rivers.
- Avoid bathing, washing, or walking in fresh water in areas endemic for schistosomiasis, also called bilharzia.
- Consult a general practitioner or a specialist in travel and tropical medicine after suspected skin contact with fresh water during a trip.
- Specific diagnostic tests and an effective treatment are available, which can prevent long-term complications.
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]
EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_Mosquito-and-tick-bite-protection.pdf
- Dengue fever is a viral disease that is disease that bite during daytime.
- The best way to prevent these diseases is to protect yourself from mosquito bites, see LINK!
- A vaccination (Qdenga®) against dengue is available.
- However, based on the data available, the Swiss Expert Committee for Travel Medicine (ECTM) currently recommends vaccination with Qdenga® only for travellers who have evidence of previous dengue infection and who will be exposed in a region with significant dengue transmission, for details see LINK.
- In case of fever: do not use any medication containing acetylsalicylic acid (e.g. Aspirin®, Alcacyl®, Aspégic®), as this can worsen bleeding in case of dengue infection.
- Read the following information for optimal travel preparation.
EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_Dengue.pdf
EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_Mosquito-and-tick-bite-protection.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.
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:
- Clothing: Wear well-covered, long-sleeved clothing and long pants and treat clothing with insecticide beforehand (see factsheet “prevention of arthropod bites”).
- Mosquito repellent: Apply a mosquito repellent to uncovered skin several times a day (see factsheet “prevention of arthropod bites”).
- 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.
- Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes that bite during daytime.
- As a prevention measure, great attention should be given to protection from mosquito bites.
- There is neither a vaccination nor a specific medication against chikungunya for travellers.
- In case of fever: do not use acetylsalicylic acid (e.g. Aspirin®, Alcacyl®, Aspégic®) as this can worsen bleeding in case of dengue infection.
- Read the following information for optimal travel preparation.
EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_Chikungunya.pdf
EKRM_Factsheet_Layperson_EN_Mosquito-and-tick-bite-protection.pdf
CDC Map: Distribution for Chikungunya
- Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes.
- Chikungunya can be prevented by protection against mosquito bites.
- It typically presents with severe joint pain of the hands and feet. In a few patients, these may persist for weeks or months.
The infection may present with some or all of the following symptoms: sudden onset of high-grade fever, chills, headache, redness of eyes, muscle and joint pain, and rash. The rash usually occurs after the onset of fever and typically involves the trunk and extremities, but can also include the palms, soles of the feet, and the face.
Often fever occurs in two phases of up to one week duration, with an interval of one to two fever-free days in between. The second phase may present with much more intense muscle and joint pain, which can be severe and debilitating. These symptoms are typically bilateral and symmetric and mainly involve hands and feet, but may also involve the larger joints, such as the knees or shoulders.
About 5-10% of infected people continue to experience severe joint pain even after the fever has subsided, in some cases lasting up to several months or, albeit rare, even years.
- FOPH Switzerland: https://www.bag.admin.ch/bag/de/home/krankheiten/krankheiten-im-ueberblick/chikungunya.html
- WHO - Chikungunya fact sheet: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chikungunya
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/chikungunya/index.html
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Hepatitis A (HAV)
- 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
- Altitude sickness can be life-threatening and may be experienced by any traveler.
- The danger begins at around 2500m and rises with increasing altitude.
- People differ in their susceptibility to altitude sickness; this is not related to their physical fitness.
- Severe altitude sickness with fluid accumulation in the brain or lungs can rapidly result in death.
- If you are planning a stay in high altitudes, we strongly recommend you to consult your doctor for detailed recommendations and instructions.
- Eine Höhenkrankheit kann lebensgefährlich sein und bei jedem Reisenden auftreten.
- Die Gefahr beginnt bei ca. 2500m und nimmt mit zunehmender Höhe zu.
- Wenn Sie einen Höhenaufenthalt planen, lesen sie bitte dieses Merkblatt aufmerksam durch!
- Je nach Reiseart und / oder Vorerkrankungen wird die Beratung durch eine Fachperson dringend angeraten.
- Langsamer Aufstieg. Aufstiegsregeln: oberhalb von 2500m sollte die Schlafhöhe um nicht mehr als 300-500m pro Tag gesteigert werden und pro 1000m Schlafhöhengewinn sollte ein zusätzlicher Ruhetag eingelegt werden.
- Treten Beschwerden auf, die auf eine Bergkrankheit hinweisen (siehe oben), muss der Anstieg pausiert werden und er darf erst wieder bei Beschwerdefreiheit fortgesetzt werden. Bei Zunahme der Beschwerden muss abgestiegen werden bzw. Patient:innen in tiefere Lagen abtransportiert werden. Bei Ignorieren zunehmender Beschwerden können sich die lebensbedrohlichen Formen der Höhenkrankheit, das Höhenhirnödem und/oder das Höhenlungenödem entwickeln.
- Ist das Einhalten der oben genannten Aufstiegsregeln situativ oder geländebedingt nicht möglich, kann die Einnahme von Acetazolamid (DIAMOX®) das Risiko eine akute Höhenkrankheit zu entwickeln, vermindern. Die Verschreibung des Medikaments bedingt eine ärztliche Indikationsstellung sowie eine Aufklärung über allfällige Nebenwirkungen!
- Kopfschmerzen: Paracetamol (z.B. PANADOL®, DAFALGAN®). Keine Schlafmittel verwenden!
- Höhenhirnödem: sofortiger Abstieg. Falls verfügbar: Sauerstoffgabe, medikamentöse Notfalltherapie.
- Höhenlungenödem (Atemnot auch in Ruhe, rasselndes Atemgeräusch, Reizhusten) Sofortiger Abstieg. Falls verfügbar: Sauerstoffgabe, medikamentöse Notfalltherapie.
- 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.
- 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.
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.
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
- 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.
- 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 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!
- 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".