Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
27 October 2011 09:32
Concern is growing that a whooping cough outbreak in New Zealand could spread nationwide
Britons travelling to New Zealand in the coming weeks might want to purchase medical travel insurance after health officials warned that a whooping cough outbreak in pockets of the country could become more widespread.
In September there were 40 cases of whooping cough in Nelson, on the northern tip of the South Island, while 27 cases have been identified so far this month and a further 16 are being investigated, according to Nelson Marlborough District Health Board.
There are also confirmed cases along the west coast of New Zealand and in Hawke's Bay in the North Island. The outbreak has prompted fears that a similar nationwide epidemic to the one in 2004-05 could occur.
Dr Jill Sherwood, Nelson Marlborough District Health Board medical officer, said whooping cough was especially serious for babies who have not yet been immunised.
She went on to say that parents should keep young babies away from anyone with a cough as people who have undiagnosed cases of whooping cough can often infect others in close proximity.
Dr Sherwood said: "See your GP quickly if you are concerned about your health or the health of your child as antibiotics prescribed early in the illness could decrease the seriousness of the symptoms.
"If babies and young children are immunised, they can reduce their chance of this serious and sometimes life-threatening illness."
04 November 2019
As the nights draw in, we're turning our thoughts to the warmer climes of the Southern Hemisphere and treks in Patagonia that will put a spring in your step...
[more...]
Escape the UK's shorter autumn days and head to the Southern Hemisphere for sun and sporting fun.
21 October 2019
Struggling for holiday inspiration? Let us inspire you with our list of book-themed breaks.
Check out our top recommendations to make the most of your time in Frankfurt, on the River Maine.
30 October 2019
What quirky customs await you on your travels this Halloween?
Look past the petrifying and discover a side to the Romanian region you never knew...
14 October 2019
Bucharest is the jewel of the Balkans crown - explore the city to find a host of hidden gems.
At the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe lies a country with a story to tell. Check out these must-see sites in Croatia to learn more.
07 October 2019
With Halloween on the horizon we look for destinations across the globe with a decidedly mysterious appeal...
What should you eat in Croatia? Good question. Unrumble that tummy with our rundown of our favourite Croat cuisine.
Where's the best beach in Croatia? We answer that question and more as we look at the Adriatic beaches you won't want to miss out on...
02 October 2019
Enjoy National Pizza Month and grab a slice of history with the true story of everyone's favourite Italian flat-bread...