By NewsDesk  @bactiman63

A yellow fever outbreak has been reported in five states in Nigeria (Bauchi, Benue, Delta, Ebonyi, and Enugu) prompting the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to say if you’re traveling to Nigeria, take steps to prevent yellow fever by getting vaccinated at least 10 days before travel and taking steps to prevent mosquito bites.

Image/CDC

The government of Nigeria requires that all travelers 9 months of age or older show proof of yellow fever vaccination to enter the country. A signed and stamped International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP or “Yellow Card”) provides proof of vaccination.

All travelers 9 months or older going to Nigeria should receive vaccination against yellow fever at least 10 days before travel.

Yellow fever vaccine is currently available at a limited number of clinics in the United States. Contact yellow fever vaccine providers well in advance of travel.

If you received yellow fever vaccine 10 or more years ago, talk with a health care provider about getting a booster vaccination before traveling anywhere in Nigeria where there is a declared yellow fever outbreak.

Yellow fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic fever. Symptoms of yellow fever (fever, chills, headache, backache, and muscle aches) develop 3-6 days after infection. About 15% of people infected with yellow fever virus will develop severe illness that can lead to liver disease, bleeding, shock, organ failure, yellowing skin (jaundice), and sometimes death.

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