FCO Travel Advice Update: Travellers to Egypt should have Hepatitis A jab

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has today updated its travel advice for British Nationals heading to Egypt, advising them to have a Hepatitis A vaccination.

The change of advice is due to an increase in cases of the hepatitis A virus in travellers returning from Egypt. This increase in hepatitis A infections has been seen in Denmark, Germany, Norway, Sweden and the Netherlands as well as the UK.

An investigation to determine the common cause amongst the reported cases is currently under way.

Hepatitis A is transmitted through contaminated food or water and poor hygiene; it is a viral infection which causes inflammation of the liver.

Although those most risk of contracting the disease when in Egypt and other countries where hepatitis A is endemic are travellers visiting family and friends, or areas of poor sanitation, cases do occur in holidaymakers staying in good quality hotels and accommodation.

Because of this a Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all travellers visiting Egypt. Holiday makers should also be careful with personal hygiene and food and water safety whilst they are away.

Anyone who feels unwell after returning from Egypt should visit their GP and advise them where they have recently travelled.

An important note about travel insurance and vaccinations

Travel insurance is vital for any holiday as it protects you from the risk of incurring large medical bills if you require medical treatment whilst you are away.

You should note that if you are travel to a country without having the recommended vaccinations and you become ill, with a disease which you should have been vaccinated against, you may not be covered by your travel insurance.

To find out what vaccinations are necessary for the country you are visiting visit the NATHNAC (The National Travel Health Network and Centre) website.

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