Brazil Sets Records, While Falling Short of Reaching Yellow Fever Vaccination Goal

A new report from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) regarding yellow fever cases in South America shows Brazil is leading other countries with the most cases reported in decades.

Brazil is leading Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Peru, and Suriname during the current yellow fever outbreak through February 2018.

In Brazil, between 1 July 2017 and 15 February 2018, there were 409 confirmed human cases of yellow fever, including 118 deaths.

Additionally, the PAHO said the current epizootic wave could reach neighboring countries such as Argentina and Paraguay.

Moreover, Brazil is falling short on its goal to vaccinate 20 million residents at risk for yellow fever.

As of February 15, 2018, only 3.95 million, or 19 percent of Brazilians have been vaccinated, reports the PAHO.

And, over 80 percent of these individuals have been vaccinated with fractional doses of the yellow fever vaccine.

Just 356,800 Brazilians have received the standard, full dose vaccine.

If you plan to visit Brazil, you may need to show proof of yellow fever immunization, says the PAHO.

Sao Paulo, which is Brazil’s largest city, is requiring proof of vaccination prior to entering.

The requirements for the International Certificate of Vaccination against yellow fever, are available on the World Health Organization (WHO) International Travel and Health website.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the WHO and the US Embassy in Brazil have updated their vaccination recommendations for persons living in or traveling to Brazil.

CDC health officials say the yellow fever vaccine "is only effective if received at least 10 days prior to arrival in an at-risk area."

For most travelers, a single dose of yellow fever vaccine provides long-lasting protection. However, some travelers may require a booster dose.

Yellow fever vaccination requirements and recommendations for specific countries are available on the CDC Travelers’ Health page.

The Yellow fever vaccine is available only at designated vaccination centers in the USA, which can be found at the CDC’s Travelers’ Health Yellow Fever Vaccination Clinics page.

The Stamaril vaccine is currently available in 70 countries worldwide is available at select locations in the USA.

There are sufficient supplies of Stamaril vaccine to meet the yellow fever vaccination needs at the clinics participating in the Expanded Access Program in the US.

Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacists to determine if you may need a dose of yellow fever vaccine or a booster dose before your trip to an area at risk for yellow fever.

Vaccines, like any medicine, can have side effects, says the CDC. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of vaccines to the FDA or CDC.