The Ministry of Health in Saint Kitts and Nevis has released a Yellow Fever Vaccination Advisory. It states that individuals who are travelling to affected countries, or countries where vaccination is recommended, must get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel.

The advisory says that, “Proof of vaccination (yellow fever vaccination card) must be presented to local immigration officers upon request when returning to the federation from these countries”.

It further stated, “Travellers having transited more than 12 hours through the airport of a country at risk for yellow fever transmission will also be required to show proof of vaccination.”

The advisory follows an epidemiological alert by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) on the increasing number of cases and consequent deaths in the region of the Americas.

“Yellow Fever is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitos and can be fatal. The yellow fever vaccine is safe and highly effective, providing lifelong immunity with a single dose. Many countries require proof of vaccination for entry, particularly those in South America and Africa where the disease is endemic” the release said.

The World Health Organization (WHO) compiled a list of 42 countries with the risk of yellow fever transmission including Trinidad, Guyana, and Brazil. The list can be found on the Facebook page @Ministry of Health – Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Persons can schedule Yellow Fever Vaccine appointments at the Basseterre Health Centre in St. Kitts by calling 467-1139 or call the Charlestown Health Centre on Nevis at 660-6383. Persons should book well in advance to ensure compliance with travel requirements.