More yellow fever concern in 4 states in Brazil

The jungle (sylvatic) yellow fever outbreak that began in the state of Minas Gerais may be spreading. The latest information from affected states is summarized as follows:

• Minas Gerais - worst outbreak in history with 391 possible cases and 81 deaths; deaths have been recorded in residents of the municipalities of Ladainha, Ipanema, Teófilo Otoni, Piedade de Caratinga, Malacacheta, Imbé de Minas, Sao Sebastiao do Maranhao, Itambacuri, Poté, Conceiçao de Ipanema, Setubinha, José Raydan and Ubaporanga. It is still not clear if there is transmission in urban settings.
• São Paulo - 10 possible cases and 3 deaths are being investigated.
• Bahia - at least 7 possible cases are being investigated. A vaccination campaign is planned for 45 municipalities.
• Espírito Santo - 18 possible cases are being investigated with at least 1 case confirmed by lab testing. Monkey deaths have occurred in the municipalities of Colatina and Irupi. Four natural parks (Pedra Azul, Forno Grande, Mata das Flores and Cachoeira da Fumaça) have been closed temporarily to reduce the risk of human exposure.

Advice

The yellow fever situation is a growing concern. While the risk of exposure for most travellers to Brazil is low, unvaccinated travellers visiting areas where this virus may be circulating may be at high risk.

Travellers to areas where there is a risk of exposure to yellow fever can reduce that risk by obtaining a yellow fever vaccination 10 days before travelling. In addition, travellers should take all necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Travellers are reminded that many other countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination upon arrival for all travellers equal to or greater than 9-12 months of age arriving from a country where there is a risk of yellow fever.