11 Nov 2024 | 03:10 PM UTC
Colombia: Yellow fever outbreak confirmed in Tolima in November
Yellow fever outbreak confirmed in Tolima, Colombia, in November. Consider vaccination; avoid mosquito bites.
Colombian health authorities have confirmed a yellow fever outbreak in Tolima, with 11 cases (8 confirmed) and three related deaths Oct. 30-Nov. 7. Health officials activated the "Epidemiological Siege" to contain the outbreak in 11 municipalities, prioritizing Cunday, Prado, Purificacion, and Villarrica, which have the highest number of cases. Response measures implemented include mass vaccination in prioritized municipalities, epidemiological investigations, intensified surveillance, vector control, and public awareness campaigns to enhance prevention efforts. This report represents the most complete data available as of Nov. 11.
Consult a travel medicine provider about the need for yellow fever vaccination. Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen products if yellow fever is suspected, as these could exacerbate bleeding tendencies associated with the disease.
Yellow fever is endemic in Colombia, with peak transmission usually during the rainy season (March-May and September-November) when mosquito activity is highest. The department of Tolima has achieved over 93 percent vaccination coverage, surpassing the WHO-recommended threshold of at least 80 percent to prevent widespread community transmission. Health officials in Colombia reported no cases 2019-2022 and two cases in 2023.
Yellow fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most infected individuals have no illness or only mild illness. Symptoms typically include fever, muscle pain, backaches, and chills. However, a small percentage of people develop serious illnesses that can potentially lead to jaundice, abdominal pain with vomiting, fatal bleeding, and organ failure. Symptoms typically appear 3-6 days after being bitten.
