Yellow Fever vaccine shortage prompts dosage changes

Jun 20, 2017 | 1:00 PM

Due to a shortage of Yellow Fever vaccines in North America, clinics in Prince Albert will provide fractal or partial doses to maximize supply.

This could effect travellers to common resort destinations such as Panama, Brazil and Trinidad and Tobago. Yellow Fever is a disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Early symptoms are similar to that of a cold or flu, including headache, muscle pain, and fever.

According to Dr. Khami Chokani, medical health officer for the Prince Albert Parkland Health Region, a half dose will only last so long. 

“Normally, when you get a full dose it is a lifelong immunity,” Chokani said. “But when we give you the fractional dose, we know for sure that it will protect you for twelve months.”

For those who do receive the partial dose, it may require two trips to the clinic. First, to receive the travel assessment and the second to receive the vaccine. This is to help ensure no part of the vaccine is wasted.

A full dose of the vaccine will only be provided to those travelling to a country where an outbreak is present, residing in a Yellow Fever disease risk country for more than a year, or visiting a country which requires the vaccine for entry or visa requirements.

Chokani said the risk to people in Prince Albert is very low unless they travel to infected areas, and recommended those travelling abroad get in touch with the health regions travel health clinic or visit the Health Canada website.

West Nile on radar

On the topic of mosquitoes, Chokani said fears for West Nile virus in the area were low, for now. Recent bouts of rain, however, could bring out mosquitoes and the illness.

“Right now things are looking okay but things can change quickly,” he said. “There is some increase in the number of mosquitoes, but whether they are carrying West Nile, we will have to wait and see.”

The doctor encouraged people be vigilant with insect repellent and to drain any pools of stagnant water on their property.

 

tyler.marr@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @JournoMarr