United States: Shortage of yellow fever vaccinations

Event

Health officials in the United States have warned that Americans who need a yellow fever vaccination for travel may experience difficulties in obtaining the vaccine, due to anticipated shortages linked to a manufacturing problem. The shortage affects the only version of the vaccine licensed in the US by the Center for Disease Control (CDC). The CDC has stated that doses of the vaccine could run out as early as May 2017, and it will only be available at 250 of the 4000 clinics that administer the vaccine.

Context

The yellow fever vaccination, which costs USD 141, is recommended for those traveling to certain areas in South America and Africa, and approximately 20 countries require proof of vaccination for entry. For most people, only one dose of the vaccine is needed to protect against the disease for a lifetime.

Symptoms of yellow fever - a mosquito-borne disease - generally appear within three to six days following infection and include fever, chills, muscle and back pain, vomiting, headaches, and, in more serious cases, hemorrhaging and organ failure. The yellow fever vaccine should be administered at least ten days prior to travel to an affected zone to be fully effective. According to WHO, the vaccine provides life-long immunity.

Advice

Individuals in or planning travel to areas where yellow fever is prevalent are advised to plan ahead, and consult their doctor regarding vaccination options and to protect themselves against mosquitoes, e.g. by wearing covering clothing, using insect repellent, and sleeping under mosquito-netting or in an air conditioned room.