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The major outbreak of YF (yellow fever) in Angola is continuing. Since the first cases were reported in December 2015 in Luanda province, there have been 2267 suspected cases (696 confirmed) and 293 deaths up until 11 May 2016.
The Luanda province continues to be the epicentre of the YF outbreak; however, there are confirmed cases of YF in 14 out of Angola’s 18 provinces, with local transmission present in 7 highly populated provinces.
The outbreak in Angola remains a high concern because there is persistent local transmission. There is a high risk of spread to bordering countries including those classified as low risk for YF disease (i.e. Namibia, Zambia). At the start of February 2016 health authorities in Angola began a mass vaccination campaign across Luanda province, widening the campaign to Benguela and Huambo provinces from mid-April 2016. Disease surveillance and vector control activities have also been strengthened.
International spread of the disease has already been documented, and cases have been exported to China (11 cases), Kenya (2 cases) and DR Congo (39 cases), this highlights the risk of international spread through unvaccinated 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 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.
