Yellow fever warning for Peru

The Peruvian ministry of health has confirmed six cases of yellow fever, including four deaths, and a further eight probable cases, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) reports.

High risk regions of Peru for yellow fever infection include areas east of the Andes mountains (although this does not include Cusco or Machu Picchu) and in other mountainous and jungle areas.

Travellers should ensure they have an up-to-date yellow fever vaccination before going to Peru.

The FCO notes you may need to show evidence of vaccination if arriving from other South American countries where yellow fever is prevalent.

Yellow fever is a viral haemorrhagic illness that exists in many African and South American countries and is transmitted via the bit of Aedes mosquitoes.

The World Health Organisation estimates there are 200,000 estimated cases of yellow fever (with 30,000 deaths) per year.

There is no specific treatment and vaccination is highly recommended as a preventive measure.

The FCO advises people to seek appropriate medical advice before travelling to Peru.