The Kokoda Trail and all the history associated with it draws the tourists.
It is pretty exhausting and the travellers love it.
But what you are not told….
A friend just returned from the Kokoda was in a group of 17 three of whom
have gone down with Malaria. It is not the ordinary strain of Malaria but the
new strain – no cure. He has been told it will keep recurring for betwen five
and ten years. An he took all the pills and precautions.
The friend knows of two others in another group with the same problem – the
new strain of Malaria.
What is the chance of a travel warning from DEFAT or are they only interested
in bombs and terrorists. It would seem that there is more chance of catching
incurable Malaria than being hit by a bomb.
+++
DFAT
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/Papua_New_Guinea
Kokoda Track: As for other parts of Papua New Guinea, we advise
you to exercise a high degree of caution walking the Kokoda Track. We
recommend you travel with guides from a reputable tour company. The
Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) can be contacted on telephone (675) 325
5540 regarding payment of the applicable fee. You should register with
the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade before attempting to hike the Kokoda Track.
Unexploded ordnance still exists in Papua New Guinea, particularly along the Kokoda Track and at Milne Bay and Rabaul.
…
Health facilities exist in most urban centres but investigative
resources are usually very limited. Most towns have private GPs and
pharmacies stock most commonly used drugs. Health facilities are very
limited in rural areas, including the entire length of the Kokoda
Track.
Malaria is endemic in all areas outside urban Port Moresby.
Dengue fever is also common in coastal towns. Precautions should be
taken to avoid mosquito bites.
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