Yellow Fever in Peru
13 Feb 2012
The media has reported on the death of a 45-year-old farmer from yellow fever in Sandia district, Puno department in southern Peru, just east of the Andes and close to the border with Bolivia. Yellow fever has been confirmed by the National Institute of Health (NIH). A second suspected case from the same area is being treated in hospital and has yet to be confirmed as yellow fever.
The Office of the Director of the Regional Health has initiated an immunisation campaign, targeting those aged between 2-59 years-of-age in the districts of Sandia, Mashiapo, San Juan del Oro and Putina Punco. Health officials also recommend yellow fever vaccination for travellers intending to visit the area.
Official confirmation by WHO is awaited.
Advice for Travellers
Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for those travelling to areas east of the Andes in Peru. Travellers should also take steps to avoid mosquito bites.