With yellow fever vaccine coverage sitting just under 80 percent in Santa Catarina, the state government’s announcement of eight yellow fever (YF) cases and three resulting deaths in 2021 was used to remind the population to get vaccinated if they hadn’t already done so. Surveillance of monkey deaths caused by YF infection have so far uncovered more than 600 suspected cases, with the latest reported from the municipality of Pedras Grandes. Peak YF season runs from December through to May. Read more
INVESTIGATIONS into bouts of severe dermatitis suffered by large numbers of residents in 21 Pernambuco cities since October have found the cause to be Hylesia moths. The insects fly towards lights in unscreened homes and on contact ‘release tiny body bristles that penetrate deep into human skin and cause the intense dermatitis observed’. 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.