Yellow Fever in Sudan (Update)
06 Dec 2012
As of 4 December 2012, a total of 732 suspected cases of yellow fever, including 165 deaths have been reported in 33 out of 64 localities in Darfur. Laboratory results have confirmed yellow fever in 40 clinical samples.
Currently, the Federal Ministry of Health is organizing an emergency mass vaccination campaign. The first phase of the campaign began on 21 November 2012, targeting 2.2 million individuals. The second phase of the campaign is planned for December, targeting an additional 1.2 million at risk population.
Advice for Travellers
There is a risk of yellow fever in areas south of the Sahara Desert and vaccination is advised for travellers to these parts (unless contraindicated). Darfur is a large region in the west of Sudan, most of which lies south of the Sahara Desert. Travellers should also take steps to avoid mosquito bites.