Travelers planning to visit places with yellow fever disease are advised to schedule an appointment with their doctor for immunization. By midsummer, said vaccine may run low, according to the CDC's “Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.” Tom Skinner, CDC spokesman, said that the Yellow Fever Vaccine will be available from 4,000 clinics across the United States to only 250 clinics. If travelers cannot get a hold of the vaccine, then they should postpone their trip.
Alternative vaccine available, but not licensed
Officers are now working double time to supply an alternative vaccine for yellow fever disease.
It is reported to be already licensed in Europe, but not in the United States. Once approved, CDC will provide a complete list of clinics where travelers can get it. Americans are advised to check the CDC website to get information.
The disease is surging around the world. A large outbreak happened in Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo last year. The disastrous event launched a massive immunization campaign. In response, there were about 30 million people who received the vaccine. As a result, there was a shortage of supply around the world, which caused the World Health Organization (WHO) to give a fraction of the dose.
For most travelers, one dose is enough throughout a lifetime.
Not only is vaccination recommended, but it is also required for entry into areas with the yellow fever virus according to International Health Regulations from 2015.
What you need to know about yellow fever
Yellow fever is a disease transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Persons afflicted with the virus may have symptoms including chills, fever, headaches, loss of appetite, nausea, and muscle pains.
Some people recover within five days.
However, around 15 percent of those whose symptoms have improved will experience a recurrent fever with abdominal pain. Damage to the liver will cause the skin to turn yellow, hence the name of the disease. When this happens, the risk to the patient increases.
In 2013, yellow fever claimed the lives of 45,000 people. The virus is commonly found in tropical countries like South America and Africa, excluding Asia.
