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PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, Mar 24, CMC – Health authorities Tuesday said there was no need for public alarm after confirming a case of Yellow Fever in a deceased Red Howler monkey.
The Ministry of Health in a statement said that “it is important to note, that there are no cases in humans” and that the Yellow Fever in the monkey had been confirmed following laboratory testing.
Yellow Fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, including the Aedes aegypti and the ministry said that it has conducted surveillance and vector control measures in the affected areas and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
“The Ministry of Health will continue to monitor the situation and provide the public with updates as necessary. In the interim, the public is encouraged to take preventative measures to reduce mosquito breeding sites and the risk of contracting the Yellow Fever virus. At this time, it is important to reiterate that there are no reported cases in humans.”
It said that symptoms and signs of Yellow Fever include sudden fever, chills, headache, back pain, nausea, vomiting and jaundice.
“The Yellowfever vaccine is a safe and effective means ofprotection and is available free of charge at all healthh centers across the country. Persons who frequent forested areas such as farmers, hunters, forestry workers …as well as those travelling to and from endemic countries known to have Yellow Fever are encouraged to ensure that their vaccination status is up to date,” the ministry added.
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