Summary
- The Ministry of Health has confirmed Yellow Fever in a deceased Red Howler monkey, but says no human infections have been reported so far.
- Officials say the infected monkey is an early warning sign that the virus is present in the environment, prompting surveillance and mosquito-control measures.
- The public is being urged to prevent mosquito breeding, avoid contact with sick or dead animals, and get vaccinated, with free Yellow Fever shots available at health centres nationwide.
THE Ministry of Health has confirmed a case of Yellow Fever in a deceased Red Howler monkey following recent laboratory testing.
However, health officials noted that there are currently no reported cases of the virus in humans.
Yellow Fever, a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes such as the Aedes aegypti, often appears first in non-human primates.
According to the Ministry’s Tuesday release, the infected monkey serves as an early indicator that the virus is present in the environment, signaling the need for heightened public vigilance and preventative action.
In response to the discovery, the Ministry has already initiated surveillance and vector control measures in the affected areas and continues to monitor the situation closely.
Health officials are urging the public to take immediate steps to reduce mosquito bites and eliminate breeding grounds. Citizens are advised to empty stagnant water from containers, tyres, and buckets around their homes, use insect repellent, and ensure their homes are properly screened. The Ministry also warned the public to avoid handling or approaching sick or dead animals—particularly monkeys—and to report any such sightings to the relevant authorities.
Initial symptoms of Yellow Fever typically appear three to six days post-infection and include sudden fever, chills, headache, back pain, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. Anyone experiencing these symptoms is urged to visit their nearest health facility immediately.
The Ministry is also reminding the public that the Yellow Fever vaccine is safe, effective, and available free of charge at all health centres nationwide. Vaccination is highly recommended for individuals who frequently visit forested areas—such as farmers, hunters, forestry workers, and hikers—as well as those traveling to or from countries where the disease is endemic.
