Yellow Fever in Cameroon (Update)
10 Feb 2012
In December 2011, the Ministry of Health of Cameroon notified WHO of a yellow fever outbreak in the North Region of the country.
A total of 23 cases, including 7 deaths, have been reported to have occurred since October 2011 in Guider, Bibemi, Gaschiga, Lagdo, Mayo Oulo and Golombe districts. These cases were identified as part of the surveillance system, with fever and jaundice within the 14 days of onset.
At least 13 cases from six health districts were laboratory confirmed at the Institute Pasteur of Cameroon. The World Health Organization country office has been working with the government/health authorities in the outbreak field investigation to confirm the cases and assess the extent of the outbreak.
Advice for Travellers
Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for all travellers to Cameroon unless contraindicated.
As this infection is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito, travellers should take steps to avoid being bitten.