The Micronesia states reported 672 cases of cholera and six deaths between the first week of May and 7 June. Outbreaks commonly occur in overcrowded communities with poor sanitation and lack of safe water. Travellers should take particular care with food and water. If drinking water is not from a known safe source then it is best avoided or made safe by boiling or purifying. Cooked food should be served piping hot, and raw or undercooked meat, seafood and unpasteurised dairy products avoided. Raw fruit and vegetables should be peeled or cooked before consumption. Remember, peel it, boil it, cook it or forget it! Cholera immunisation is not available in the UK and not recommended as a means of protection.

• To obtain a health brief tailored to your journey call the MASTA Travellers Health Line on 0906 8 224 100 (calls charged at 60p/min). General travel health advice available at www.masta.org