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Yellow Fever in Democratic Republic of Congo (Update)

05 Sep 2016

As of t 1 September the World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported as total of 2513 suspected Yellow Fever (YF) cases from 8 of the Democratic Republic of Congos (DRC) 26 Provinces.

Only 2164 of the total suspected YF cases have been laboratory tested, 75 of which have been confirmed, with 16 deaths. Of the 75 confirmed cases: 57 acquired infection in Angola, 13 are autochthonous, 5 are cases of sylvatic transmission (not related to the outbreak).

The outbreak in DRC remains a serious public health event, however, it is not considered to constitute a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Mass reactive YF vaccination campaigns are underway in response to this ongoing outbreak.

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 DRC. The vaccine should be administered at least 10 days before travelling and DRC 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.