Saint Lucia Ministry of Health Monitors Regional Increase in Yellow Fever Cases

Yellow Fever Resurgence in the Americas Prompts Heightened Surveillance in St. Lucia

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued an advisory regarding a concerning resurgence of yellow fever in the Americas, prompting heightened surveillance and preventative measures in St. Lucia. The last quarter of 2024 witnessed a significant increase in confirmed human cases, predominantly in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Guyana, and Peru, with a sobering 50% fatality rate. This upward trend continued into early 2025, with Brazil, Colombia, and Peru reporting 17 confirmed cases and 7 deaths in just the first four weeks of the year. Adding to the concern, PAHO has observed a geographical expansion of the disease, with outbreaks emerging in areas previously considered low-risk. This evolving situation underscores the need for vigilance and proactive measures to prevent the spread of yellow fever.

St. Lucia, while currently at low risk due to the absence of confirmed cases in decades, recognizes the potential for transmission given the presence of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the primary vector for yellow fever, as well as other mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. Dr. Michelle Francois, St. Lucia’s National Epidemiologist, emphasizes the importance of strengthened surveillance, early diagnosis, and prompt isolation and treatment to mitigate the risk. PAHO’s rapid risk assessment categorizes the overall risk in the Americas as high, making proactive measures crucial. These measures include enhancing surveillance efforts to detect cases early, ensuring rapid diagnosis through appropriate testing, and implementing isolation and treatment protocols to minimize transmission should a case be identified.

Yellow fever, a viral disease transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, typically manifests symptoms within three to six days of infection. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, with initial manifestations including sudden fever, chills, headache, body aches, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, the disease can progress to high fever, organ failure, bleeding, and jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes. Unfortunately, there is no specific cure for yellow fever; treatment focuses primarily on managing symptoms and providing supportive care. Dr. Francois advises against using aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) due to the risk of exacerbating bleeding complications.

Prevention remains the most effective strategy against yellow fever. For individuals traveling to countries where yellow fever is endemic, several preventative measures are crucial. These include consistent use of mosquito repellent to deter mosquito bites, wearing protective clothing to minimize exposed skin, and avoiding mosquito bites during peak activity hours, typically dusk and dawn. Most importantly, timely vaccination is essential. The yellow fever vaccine provides effective immunity if administered at least ten days before travel to affected regions.

In St. Lucia, the yellow fever vaccine is available at the La Clery and Vieux-Fort Wellness Centers. Given that each vial contains multiple doses, individuals are encouraged to schedule appointments in advance to minimize vaccine wastage and ensure efficient utilization of resources. This proactive approach to vaccination will not only protect individuals traveling to high-risk areas but also contribute to the overall regional effort to control the spread of yellow fever.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs in St. Lucia is committed to remaining vigilant and informed about the evolving regional situation. They will continue to monitor developments and provide timely updates to the public as necessary. The Ministry urges all residents to stay informed, take necessary precautions, especially when traveling, and contribute to the collective effort to prevent the spread of yellow fever. This includes seeking advice from healthcare professionals regarding travel plans to affected regions and adhering to recommended preventative measures. By working together, communities can minimize the risk of yellow fever transmission and protect public health.