Update – Yellow fever outbreak in Brazil
An outbreak of yellow fever is growing. Initially affecting some states, it has now expanded to major parts of the country. As of 3 March 2017, yellow fever virus transmission continues to expand towards the Atlantic coast of Brazil according to WHO.
Travellers visiting any area at risk of yellow fever should be vaccinated at least ten days prior to arrival. In addition, some travellers to and from Brazil are required to show proof of vaccination to gain entry.
See your doctor well in advance of travel. Vaccination against yellow fever is:
- Recommended for everyone > 9 months of age who will visit any risk areas within Brazil (see below for details).
- Required for travellers arriving from: Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo (including people who have transited in these countries).
- Required for some destinations after being in Brazil, as it is a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. See the relevant individual country guide for details.
Prevent mosquito bites:
- Use an effective insect repellent that contains DEET, Picaridin, PMD or IR3535. Wear protective clothing (long pants and sleeves, socks) as weather permits.
See risk areas for yellow fever in the International SOS Map
What is Yellow Fever?
Yellow fever is a viral disease that occurs in parts of Africa and South America. It is transmitted by mosquitoes. Although some people infected with yellow fever only have a mild illness, others develop a serious toxic form of the disease. The symptoms range from a mild influenza-like syndrome to a severe hemorrhagic fever with liver failure. There is no specific treatment for the disease. Between 20%-50% of people who have a severe case of yellow fever die from the disease. Because yellow fever can spread easily, many countries require proof of an up-to-date yellow fever vaccination before they allow travellers to enter the nation. Some require all travellers to be vaccinated before entry, while others only require vaccination if you have recently travelled from an infected (or endemic) country.
For More Information:
- See the Brazilian Ministry of Health yellow fever information portal (in Portuguese)
- About Brazil: see the International SOS Country Guide.