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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued a travel alert for people traveling to Kenya due to an outbreak of Rift Valley fever. Health officials reported an outbreak of Rift Valley fever in Kenya that began in June 2018.
The outbreak has been confirmed in Wajir, Marsabit and Siaya Counties:
On June 7, 2018, the Kenya Ministry of Health confirmed an outbreak of Rift Valley fever (RVF). On June 2, 2018, an 18-year-old male patient was admitted to Wajir County, northeastern Kenya, with fever, bodily weakness, bleeding gums and mouth, and having consumed meat. A sick camel. He was later suspected of having RVF and died the same day. The date of exposure was estimated on May 11, 2018. On June 4, 2018, two relatives of the index patient were admitted. Blood samples were collected and sent to the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), one of which was confirmed positive for RVF on June 7, 2018. As of July 4, a total of 94 cases (Wajir 82 , Marsabit 11 and Siaya 1) were reported including 10 deaths (CFR 11%). Twenty samples submitted to KEMRI were PCR positive for RVF
According to the CDC, travelers to Kenya should protect themselves from RVF by avoiding contact with infected animals and preventing mosquito bites.
is transmitted primarily through direct contact with infected blood, fluids, or animal tissues such as cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats, and camels. Less commonly, it can also spread through mosquito bites.
Most people with RVF do not feel sick or have only mild illness. Symptoms of RVF include fever, weakness, back pain, dizziness and weight loss. However, a small percentage (8% -10%) of people may have more serious illness, such as severe bleeding, swelling of the brain, or eye disease. About 1% of people who die from RVF die from the disease.
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