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Yellow Fever in Angola (Update)

28 Jun 2016

The major outbreak of yellow fever (YF) in Angola is continuing. Since early 2016 there have been 3294 suspected cases (861 confirmed) and 347 deaths up until 17 June 2016. Suspected cases have been reported in all provinces, and confirmed cases have been reported in 16 of 18 provinces. Mass vaccination campaigns began in Luanda and have been expanded to cover most other affected parts of Angola. Recent vaccination campaigns have focused on border areas.

In the Democratic Republic of The Congo (DRC), the total number of notified suspected YF cases is 1106 up until 20 June 2016 (68 confirmed cases and 75 deaths). The YF cases have been reported in five of DRCs provinces. Of the 68 confirmed YF cases, 59 were imported from Angola. Vaccination campaigns in DRC have centred on affected zones in Kinshasa and Kongo Central.

Two additional countries have reported confirmed yellow fever cases imported from Angola: Kenya (2 cases) and People’s Republic of China (11 cases). These cases highlight the risk of international spread through non-immunised travellers.

Advice for Travellers

Yellow fever infection can easily be prevented by vaccination. Vaccination is advised for all travellers to Angola (unless contraindicated) and proof of vaccination is required for all travellers over 9 months of age entering Angola. The vaccine should be administered at least 10 days before travelling and Angola considers the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) to be valid for life.

It is essential that travellers also take steps to avoid mosquito bites.