A WHO update on yellow fever (YF) across the region reported 203 confirmed and 252 probable cases and 40 deaths from 13 countries since 2021. Ghana had the highest totals – 75 confirmed and 62 suspected cases, with 12 deaths. The agency noted four newly reporting countries: Kenya, Niger, Sierra Leone and Uganda and commented on the challenges that remain, ‘including ongoing circulation in some high-risk areas and the detection of recent cases in urban areas, such as in Cameroon and Uganda, where there is little or no underlying immunity’. Uganda introduced the YF vaccine into its routine immunisation schedule in Oct 22 and a Preventive Mass Vaccination Campaign is planned for later this month. Read more
Advice for travellers
Yellow fever virus is a mosquito-borne disease found in tropical and subtropical areas in Central/South America and Africa. While it can be severe, yellow fever infection is a very rare in Australian travellers. However, under the International Health Regulations (IHR), proof of vaccination may be required of any traveller entering or leaving an area at risk of yellow fever transmission. Read more about yellow fever.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.