St James on high alert for yellow fever
… Health officials urge vigilance
Published:Monday | February 17, 2025 | 10:07 AMChristopher Thomas/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Despite no recorded cases of yellow fever in Jamaica, St James’ Medical Officer of Health, Dr Tanique Bailey-Small, has emphasised the importance of screening at ports of entry to prevent a potential outbreak.
Speaking at Thursday’s St James Municipal Corporation meeting, Dr Bailey-Small warned that the country’s local mosquito population could transmit the virus if exposed to an imported case.
She also highlighted the need for ongoing surveillance for respiratory illnesses, as Jamaica remains in its annual flu season.
“We receive visitors from all over the world and, some diseases, such as yellow fever and malaria, are not naturally found in Jamaica,” she explained.
“The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has reported a rise in yellow fever cases across parts of the Americas.”
Vaccines available
While yellow fever is not endemic to Jamaica, a single case would be classified as an outbreak. The Aedes Aegypti mosquito, which is present locally, is a known vector for the virus.
Yellow fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease, is endemic to tropical regions of Africa and Latin America. It derives its name from jaundice, a symptom that can develop in some patients. While many recover within a few days, severe cases can lead to organ failure and death.
Dr Bailey-Small reassured the public that vaccines for both yellow fever and the flu are available at local health facilities. However, she noted that COVID-19 vaccines are currently out of stock but will be made available once supplies are replenished.
“It is still flu season, and the flu vaccine is available at all our health facilities,” she said. “Most people who receive the yellow fever vaccine are travellers visiting countries where the disease is endemic.”
Earlier this month, PAHO issued an epidemiological alert after confirming human cases of yellow fever in the Americas. In 2024, 61 cases were reported in the region, resulting in 30 deaths. In January 2025, 17 new cases were confirmed, with seven fatalities.
As concerns grow over the spread of yellow fever, health authorities continue to stress vigilance, preventive measures, and early detection to protect the public.