YELLOW FEVER UPDATE

Several parents asked about the Yellow Fever risks for travel to Brazil during our last VOY meeting and I promised to check back with the Traveler's Clinic at the University of Virginia about this issue.

Based on the newest information on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website and the changing alerts which are coming from Brazil about risks for yellow fever and dengue fever, I believe it is advisable for all travelers to have the yellow fever vaccine.

You can look at the Travel Notices in Effect on the CDC website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinationBrazil.aspx, and I would encourage everyone to watch this website for changes as we get closer to our trip.

This vaccine is recommended (although not required) - and I am aware that in some areas of the state, the vaccine is difficult to find. 

Check the CDC website for a vaccination clinic for yellow fever near you.  http://www2.ncid.cdc.gov/travel/yellowfever/

You can call your local health department as well and they can direct you to the nearest center or may be able to order vaccine for you.  We still have plenty of time to get VOY participants vaccinated.

Even more importantly - I want to highlight the importance of insect repellent for all VOY!  Please be sure to bring repellents containing 30-50% DEET and all travelers are reminded to put this on every day at least twice a day to protect against bites.  Creams or stick form are best for international travel - as sprays may leak and aerosols are quickly depleted....

You may also wish to get permethrin containing repellent to spray on clothing as an added protection.  This protection is important for reducing risks for yellow fever, but also dengue fever which is becoming more prevelant in Brazil.

I can be reached for questions or if anyone wants to talk about these issues by cell 540-607-0947.

Many thanks, blessings to you -

Sandra Burks

VOY Nurse