The Ministry of Health advises that, through laboratory testing, Yellow Fever has been confirmed in a deceased Red Howler monkey. It is important to note that there are no cases in humans.
Yellow Fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, including the Aedes aegypti. Non-human primates, such as Red Howler monkeys, can serve as early indicators of the presence of the virus in the environment. While no human cases have been identified, the confirmation of this case does signal the need for heightened vigilance and preventative action.
The Ministry has conducted surveillance and vector control measures in the affected areas and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
Initial Symptoms and Signs of Yellow Fever (3-6 days post infection) Include:
· Sudden fever,
· Chills,
· Headache,
· Back pain,
· Nausea,
· Vomiting, and
· Jaundice.
What the Public Should Do
To reduce the risk of mosquito bites and potential transmission, members of the public are reminded to:
· Eliminate mosquito breeding sites by removing stagnant water from containers, tyres, buckets and drains around homes and communities;
· Use insect repellent on exposed skin, especially during early morning and late afternoon hours;
· Wear protective clothing, including long-sleeved shirts and long pants where possible;
· Ensure homes are properly screened or use mosquito nets where necessary;
· Avoid handling or approaching dead or sick animals, particularly monkeys, and report sightings to the relevant authorities;
· Persons experiencing symptoms such as fever and or jaundice should visit their nearest health facility.
Vaccination Advisory
The Yellow Fever vaccine is a safe and effective means of protection and is available free of charge at all health centres across the country. Persons who frequent forested areas, such as farmers, hunters, forestry workers, fisher folk, hikers and campers, as well as those travelling to or from endemic areas (countries known to have Yellow Fever) are encouraged to ensure that their vaccination status is up to date, in accordance with public health guidelines.
The Ministry of Health will continue to monitor the situation and provide the public with updates as necessary. In the interim, the public is encouraged to take preventative measures to reduce mosquito breeding sites and the risk of contracting the Yellow Fever virus. At this time, it is important to reiterate that there are no reported cases in humans.