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The major outbreak of yellow fever in Angola is continuing. Since the first cases were reported in December 2015 in Luanda province, there have been 885 suspected cases (121 confirmed) and 146 deaths up until 13 March 2016. The Viana Municipality, in the capital Luanda, continues to be the epicentre of the outbreak, and while cases have been reported in 7 other provinces, most have epidemiological links with Luanda.
Yellow fever in an urban setting is a public health emergency that may result in a large number of cases until such time as a sufficient proportion of the susceptible population is vaccinated. Health authorities in Angola, with help and support from WHO, have instituted a mass vaccination campaign across Luanda province, and are strengthening surveillance and vector control activity.
International spread of the disease has already been documented, and cases have been exported to China, Kenya and DR Congo.
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.
Source: WHO, Yellow Fever Outbreak in Angola, Situation Report 14 March 2016
