Stamaril Yellow Fever Vaccine

66 Million People Vaccinated Against Yellow Fever in Africa in 2023

Karen McClorey Hackett — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 19:51:16 +0000

Reviewer:

From early 2023 until late February 2024, 13 countries in the WHO African Region reported yellow fever (YF) cases.

Unfortunately, preliminary data suggests that the case fatality rate for yellow fever in these countries is 11%.

According to the World Health Organization, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Guinea, Niger, South Sudan, Togo, and Uganda continue reporting YF cases in 2024.

And Nigeria's outbreak has become a significant concern.

To alert international travelers, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Level 2 Travel Health Advisory on March 28, 2024, confirming yellow fever cases remain elevated in Nigeria after an outbreak was first reported in November 2020.

Since January 2023, several states in Nigeria have reported yellow fever cases (see map).

As of December 2023, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control reported 600 suspected cases of yellow fever in 36 states and 273 Local Government Areas.

There are no medications to treat or cure yellow fever, so the CDC recommends that travelers to Nigeria avoid these areas unless vaccinated.

According to WorldInfo, Nigeria recorded about 518,000 tourists in 2021, ranking 68th in the world in absolute terms. Abuja is the capital of Nigeria, located in the center of the country, within the Federal Capital Territory, and is home to over 700,000 residents.

Response activities are underway, and mass vaccination campaigns are planned in the affected areas. According to the CDC, visitors should be vaccinated at least ten days before arrival.

The Eliminate Yellow Fever Epidemics secretariat coordinated preventive and reactive efforts during 2023, substantially enhancing vaccination coverage in Africa.

Approximately 62 million people were vaccinated in Africa through preventive and reactive mass vaccination campaigns. Additionally, under catch-up campaigns in Sudan, approximately 4 million individuals received vaccination against yellow fever.

In Africa, the Stamaril® vaccine is generally available. Stamaril is expected to offer protection from yellow fever for at least ten years.

Yellow fever is caused by a virus transmitted through bites of infected mosquitoes.

The urban proliferation of Aedes spp. mosquitoes bite during the day and can significantly amplify disease transmission risks, particularly in densely populated areas.

About 15% of people infected with the yellow fever virus will develop severe illness that can lead to liver disease, bleeding, shock, organ failure, yellowing skin (jaundice), and sometimes death, says the CDC.

In the U.S., various clinics and pharmacies offer Sanofi Pasteur's YF-VAX® vaccine.

Sub Title:

Stamaril yellow fever vaccine protects people for about ten years.

References:

WHO Disease Outbreak News Yellow fever – African Region 2024

CDC Travel Neath Notice - Nigeria - March 2024

Nigeria Centre forDisease Control 2023

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Thursday, April 4, 2024 - 05:30

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US CDC Travel Alert - Nigeria - March 2024

Yellow Fever Outbreaks Cause 11% Case Fatality Rate

Karen McClorey Hackett — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 19:15:38 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

Since the ancient Yellow Fever virus was identified in Africa centuries ago, the continent has reported extensive, deadly outbreaks.

In 2023, this unfortunate trend continued.

The World Health Organization (WHO) today published Disease Outbreak News confirming that the African Region continues to confront Yellow Fever outbreaks.

Since the beginning of 2023, and as of late February 2024, a total of 13 countries in the WHO African Region have documented probable and confirmed cases of yellow Fever.

As of March 20, 2024, the WHO's preliminary data indicates a case fatality rate of 11%.

While the overall risk at the African regional level was re-assessed as moderate and the global risk remains low, active surveillance is required due to the potential for onward transmission through international travel and the presence of the competent vector in neighboring regions.

Yellow Fever is an epidemic-prone mosquito-borne vaccine-preventable disease transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes, notably Aedes sp. and Haemagogus species.

The urban proliferation of Aedes spp. These mosquitoes bite during the day and can significantly amplify transmission risks, particularly in densely populated areas, leading to swift yellow fever outbreaks.

The WHO-led global Eliminate Yellow Fever Epidemics (EYE) secretariat coordinated preventive and reactive efforts during 2023. Approximately 62 million people have been vaccinated in Africa through vaccination campaigns.

The WHO, the European Medicines Agency, and the Pan American Health Organization say a single yellow fever vaccination can grant life-long protection and promote sustained immunity for about 90% of people vaccinated.

The U.S. CDC says Yellow Fever vaccination is generally not recommended in areas with low potential for virus exposure.

However, vaccination might be considered for a small subset of travelers to these areas who are at increased risk for exposure to the virus because of prolonged travel or heavy exposure to infected mosquitoes.

The CDC says that any traveler's vaccination must consider the traveler's risk of being infected with the virus, country entry requirements, and individual risk factors for serious vaccine-associated adverse events.

"The yellow fever vaccine is a safe and highly effective way to prevent infection from what can be a deadly illness," Jeri Beales, MSN, RN, informed Precision Vaccinations. Beasles provides travelers with health information and vaccinations at Destination Health Travel Clinic near Boston, MA.

"This mosquito illness can spread rapidly between people, especially in urban areas where the mosquito has adapted to live, which is why some countries in Africa require proof of vaccination to enter."

"Children as young as nine months can be protected, and after vaccination, you may experience mild arm soreness, pain at the injection site, and sometimes a low-grade fever."

As of March 20, 2024, the YF-VAX® vaccine is licensed in the U.S. and available at certified travel vaccine clinics and pharmacies.

And the Stamaril® vaccine is available internationally in about 40 countries.

Sub Title:

African Region Yellow Fever outbreaks March 2024

References:

WHO - Disease Outbreak News Yellow fever – African Region March 2024

Yellow Fever: Origin, Epidemiology, Preventive Strategies and Future Prospects

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US CDC yellow fever outbreak map Africa

Nigeria Expands Yellow Fever Vaccinations

Donald Hackett — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 13:43:49 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

Holly Lutmer PharmD

The World Health Organization recently confirmed 34 countries in Africa have regions endemic to yellow fever. While Nigeria's yellow fever epidemic continues to impact most areas of the country, positive, preventive actions are taking place.

The Permanent Secretary in Borno State Ministry of Health and Human Services, Mohammed Ghuluze, confirmed the Government is launching an Integrated Yellow Fever Preventive Mass Vaccination Campaign in three of the 27 areas.

As of July 12 and ending July 23, 2023, the areas of Jere, MMC, and Ngala in Borno would begin administering yellow fever vaccinations.

"The Vaccination will be conducted at Health facilities and temporarily fixed posts located within the communities aimed to provide preventive measures against yellow fever," Ghuluze announced in a local media report on July 10, 2023.

"The targeted age group for the yellow fever vaccine is individuals ranging from 9 months to 44 years old."

The permanent secretary explained that yellow fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes.

Nigeria first reported a yellow fever outbreak in November 2020.

In 2022, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control reported yellow fever outbreaks in multiple states (Bauchi, Benue, Delta, Ebonyi, and Enugu).

The U.S. CDC issued a Travel Health Advisory for Nigeria to alert international travelers.

Since there are no medications to treat or cure yellow fever, vaccination is the best protection against this disease.

The CDC recommends that all travelers nine months or older going to Nigeria should receive vaccination against yellow fever at least ten days before travel. A signed and stamped International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis ("Yellow Card") provides proof of vaccination.

Sub Title:

Borno State offers yellow fever vaccines

References:

Borno to begin Yellow Fever vaccination

US CDC Nigeria travel alert

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U.S. CDC Travel Health Advisory Nigeria Yellow Fever Outbreak

Hajj Pilgrims are Well-Vaccinated

Karen McClorey Hackett — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 19:57:46 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

Holly Lutmer PharmD

With the pandemic ending, this year's Hajj may draw millions of visitors to the Kingdom of Saudi Ariba. This will be the first year since the pandemic's onset in which the maximum number of Muslims are permitted to participate in the annual pilgrimage.

And various countries, including India, are rolling out special vaccination drives to keep pilgrims safe from disease during their travels.

Nasir Yousufi reported for GAVI on June 1, 2023, Saudi authorities require proof of recent vaccination against COVID-19, meningitis, and polio, as well as yellow fever, for anyone coming from endemic countries.

"Overseas pilgrims should get these vaccines in their home countries before traveling to Saudia Arabia," commented the Kingdom's Ministry of Health.

The Haj Committee of India, in collaboration with the Health Ministry, Ministry of Minorities, and Ministry of Civil Aviation, have collaborated to ensure the timely vaccination and proper health care of all pilgrims.

"Besides the vaccines, the Ministry of Health ensures the regular health check-up of pilgrims both at the onset of pilgrimage as well as during the Hajj rituals. Every year, countries set up health camps in Saudi Arabia to take care of the pilgrims from the country," said Er. Aijaz Ahmad, Member Haj Committee of India.

As of June 2, 2023, the Ministry of Health of Saudi Arabia requires various vaccinations and recognizes the World Health Organization's Listed COVID-19 vaccines.

And the U.S. Department of State stated that those who wish to travel to Saudi Arabia to visit Medina, Hajj, or perform Umrah should review the U.S. CDC's recommendations.

If you travel to Saudi Arabia, ensure you are fully vaccinated before travel, says the State Department.

Sub Title:

Haj Committee of India prepared for 2023

References:

GAVI - How the Hajj gets vaccinated

U.S. Dept of State - Pilgrimage Travelers (Hajj and Umrah)

Hajj Umrah Vaccinations June 2023

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U.S. CDC Kingdom of Saudi Arabia June 2023

America's Airports Digitally Prepared for the Weekend

Karen McClorey Hackett — Thu, 25 May 2023 20:29:25 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently confirmed it is prepared for the holiday weekend, expecting to surpass the activity last seen at airports in 2019.

The agency forecasts May 26, 2023, to be the busiest day of the long weekend, projecting to screen approximately 2.6 million passengers.

And for PreCheck® Members, several options exist to expedite the screening process in 2023.

As of May 25, 2023, the TSA confirmed biometric and digital forms of identity enable the air passenger to seamlessly and securely transmit information at select TSA checkpoints.

'We've collaborated on several innovative digital identity initiatives, which work in place of a physical ID or boarding pass,' wrote the TSA.

'Be sure to follow the steps to set up and activate your selected digital identity solution before your trip so it's ready to present at the TSA checkpoint.'

'Look for your preferred airline or device maker below to learn more!

Biometric Identification

Opt-in at select airports to participate in the TSA PreCheck® Touchless Identity Solution program during check-in with participating airlines. Store your participation preference, TSA PreCheck® KTN, and Passport Number in the airline's mobile app. By opting in, your identity can be verified without presenting a physical ID at the bag drop, the security checkpoint, and the boarding gate.

Mobile Driver's License

Add your state-issued eligible driver's license or identification card to your phone's digital wallet. Present your ID at select TSA PreCheck® checkpoints by tapping your phone or linked device. The TSA reader will take your photo at security to proceed to screening. You must still carry your physical ID as needed.

Digital Identification

Download a TSA-approved digital ID app to your mobile device. Scan in your state-issued driver's license or state ID. At select TSA PreCheck® checkpoints, scan the app-issued QR code. The TSA reader will take your photo at security to proceed to screening. You must still carry your physical ID as needed.

Click on this TSA link to see which airports offer these services.

Furthermore, the agency announced on May 22, 2023, that teenagers aged 13-17 may now accompany TSA PreCheck® enrolled parents or guardians through TSA PreCheck screening when traveling on the same reservation and when the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the teen's boarding pass. Children 12 and under may still accompany an enrolled parent or guardian when traveling through the TSA PreCheck lanes anytime without restriction.

Sub Title:

Biometric and Digital Identity Solutions at U.S. Airports

References:

Biometric and Digital Identity Solutions For TSA PreCheck® Members

TSA is prepared for high travel volumes this Memorial Day weekend

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U.S. TSA map May 25, 2023

Northern South America Travel Advisories Reissued

Karen McClorey Hackett — Sun, 14 May 2023 14:48:28 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

Holly Lutmer PharmD

The recent travel advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State indicates several countries in northern South America are confronting various levels of civil unrest.

On May 11, 2023, the State Department reissued a Do Not Travel advisory for specific areas with the Republic of Columbia regarding civil unrest.

The highlighted areas in Columbia are as follows:

Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), Norte de Santander departments, and the Colombia-Venezuela border region.

Furthermore, the U.S. Embassy in Bogota reminded U.S. citizens on May 12, 2023, to be alert to the possibility that disruptions may occur at any place and any time with little or no warning.

Additionally, U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling by road between most major Columbia cities, and most land border areas are off-limits to U.S. government personnel unless authorized.

U.S. Citizens with emergencies can call: +57 (601) 275-2000; when outside of office hours, contact: +57 (601) 275-2000.

Columbia's geographic neighbors Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela were also issued travel advisories in 2023.

Suppose you decide to visit these countries in May 2023.

In that case, the State Department suggests avoiding protest areas, monitoring local media for breaking events and adjusting your plans based on new information, and enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts during an emergency.

From a health perspective, the U.S. CDC has issued various notices for Columbia regarding dengue, malaria, measles, and yellow fever vaccination requirements and disease outbreaks.

Moreover, rabid dogs are commonly found in Colombia.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while visiting Colombia, there may be limited or no rabies vaccine available.

These travel vaccines and others are available in the U.S. at certified clinics and pharmacies.

Sub Title:

Columbia cities off limits to U.S. citizens

References:

US State Department travel advisory - Columbia 2023

Venezuela travel advisory 2023

Ecuador travel advisory 2023

Peru travel advisory

U.S. CDC Columbia vaccinations May 2023

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Monday, May 15, 2023 - 15:15

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U.S. Dept of State Columbia travel advisory May 2023

West Africa Regains Floating Hospital Access

Karen McClorey Hackett — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 16:37:22 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

Holly Lutmer PharmD

A global charity confirmed it is bringing a state-of-the-art hospital to those in need along Africa's west coast.

Because over 50% of the world's population lives within 100 miles of the coast, Texas-based Mercy Ships can sail modern hospital ships directly to people in The Gambia and Senegal without access to medical care.

The newest ship in the Mercy Ships feet welcomes patients on board in the port of Dakar, Senegal.

In 2023, Mercy Ships will serve patients in Senegal and The Gambia with six operating rooms and 199 beds.

The Global Mercy hospital will bring new technology and larger spaces to the field service.

For Senegal field service, the new hospital has several advantages.

Such as, off-ship facilities, like dockside medical tents, have been moved on board. This change saves weeks of setup and tear-down, empowering more time for surgeries.

And built-in cameras will enable trainees to watch surgeries remotely, expanding training opportunities.

Professionals, including surgeons, dentists, nurses, healthcare trainers, teachers, cooks, seamen, engineers, and agriculturalists, donate their time and skills to charity.

Between October 2021 and January 2022, the Mercy Ships patient selection team visited all 14 regions of Senegal.

With the participation of the Chief Medical Officers of these regions, more than 900 patients have been selected for consultation with a surgeon, hoping to provide free surgery.

Don Stephens founded Mercy Ships in 1978 by purchasing the Anastasis, where he and his family lived for ten years. And Gary Brown was elected Chairman of the Board of Directors of Mercy Ships International, effective January 1, 2023.

Mercy Ships is committed to responsibly using the resources provided to us to bring hope and healing to those in need. It has worked in more than 70 countries providing services valued at more than $1 billion and treating more than 2.5 million direct beneficiaries.

Sub Title:

Mercy Ships docks in Senegal delivering free healthcare services.

References:

Mercy Ships Returns to Senegal

Mercy Ships 2023

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Mercy Ships 2023

Africa's Yellow Fever Fatality Rate Concerns Continue

Donald Hackett — Wed, 28 Dec 2022 16:58:37 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

The World Health Organization (WHO) African Region recently published a yellow fever outbreak update on the Event Information Site.

Since 2021, 40 deaths (9%) have been reported in the total 455 confirmed and probable yellow fever (YF) cases.

The WHO African Region reported on December 23, 2022, twelve African countries (Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Niger, Nigeria, Republic of the Congo, Sierra Leone, and Uganda) reported YF outbreaks this year.

Several recent confirmations have been from urban areas and/or locations with little or no underlying YF immunity (e.g., near urban areas in Cameroon, Uganda, and Kenya).

Recently, a state Nigerian state confirmed it is making progress against YF outbreaks.

On December 13, 2022, the WHO Africa Region reported a total of 1,601 suspected cases of YF had been reported throughout Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Children in these areas began to receive the Stamaril YF vaccine.

"In Kaiama FCT, the provision of health services, like immunization, is often encumbered by hard-to-reach settlements, mobile populations, and poor road accessibility, among others."

"But WHO has steadfastly provided quality life-saving interventions to the people."

This has been evident in the recent yellow fever intervention with the quality of investigation, surveillance, and response to the outbreak", Alhaji Bashir Muhammed stated in a related press release.

Yellow fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. The "yellow" in the name of the disease refers to jaundice ( yellow color eyes) affecting some infected patients, says the WHO.

To alert international visitors, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for Nigeria.

According to the CDC, travelers to Nigeria should take steps to prevent YF infections by getting vaccinated at least ten days before travel and taking measures to avoid mosquito bites.

Yellow fever vaccines are offered in the U.S. at certified clinics and pharmacies.

Sub Title:

Yellow fever is a vaccine preventable disease

References:

Yellow fever - East, West, and Central Africa (22 December 2022)

Nigeria Yellow Fever cases

CDC Level 2 Travel Advisory Nigeria

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WHO Kaiama FCT in Nigeria