An Oct 1 WHO news release expressed concern over the ‘documented gaps in population immunity against yellow fever’ (YF) after Nigeria reported 1,312 suspected YF cases from 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to the end of August – national YF vaccination coverage estimates in 2020 were 54 percent. Upsurges in YF activity were reported in 2017 but the states with highest infection rates at present are Bauchi, Benue, Delta, Ebonyi and Enugu. The risk of further spread of YF is said to be high and likely to be exacerbated by loosening of pandemic restrictions. Another country to report recent yellow fever cases is Venezuela, where a NGO (Doctors Unidos de Venezuela) announced seven human cases from Carapal del Tigre and El Merey de Amana in the eastern state of Monagas, plus several cases in howler monkeys. YF vaccination coverage for infants of 12 months was estimated to be 35 percent back in 2018.
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.