Rift Valley Fever in South Sudan

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported an outbreak of Rift Valley fever in South Sudan. Fifteen cases (including 3 deaths) have been reported in Eastern Lakes State between 7 December 2017 and 21 January 2018.

Advice to Travellers

Rift Valley fever is very rare in travellers.

The risk is increased in those visiting an area experiencing a Rift Valley fever outbreak and having contact with infected animals/humans or their tissue, for example:

• Travellers visiting farms/game reserves.
• Veterinarians/veterinarian students.
• Volunteers/workers on farms.
• Laboratory staff/students.
• Health Care Workers.

Those at increased risk of RVFV infection should be advised to:

• Avoid direct contact with infected animals, animal tissues where possible, if this is unavoidable, personal protective equipment should be worn.

• Avoid drinking unpasteurised milk and consuming raw meat products.
• Practice good insect bite avoidance measures.

There is no licensed vaccine available for human use.

• Livestock vaccines have been developed and are in use in endemic regions.

For further information see Rift Valley Fever.