Yellow fever outbreak in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, May-August 2019

Abstract

An outbreak of yellow fever (YF) occurred in Ebonyi State, Nigeria in the year 2019 and a Rapid Response Team (RRT) from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, Abuja was deployed to investigate and characterize the outbreak and institute control measures. All suspected cases were identified, line-listed and analyzed. Between May and August 2019, 78 suspected YF cases were identified from 5 LGAs in Ebonyi State. Of these, 17 (21.8%) confirmed YF cases [including 4 deaths (case fatality rate (CFR): 23.5%)] were reported in 4 LGAs, with majority 13 (76.5%) from Izzi LGA. Age groups mostly affected were 0-9 years 5(29.4%) and 20-29 years 5(29.4%) with mean age 19 ±12 years. Majority were males 10 (58.8%). Overall, 50 eligible children participated in the YF VCS, 36(72.0%) had their vaccination cards available and only 24 (48.0%) of the cards had a record of YF vaccination. Aedes larva was found in 9(90.0%) of 10 households surveyed and adult species Aedes simpsoni complex emerged from the collections. The 2019 YF outbreak in Ebonyi state was as a result of an abundance of Aedes mosquitoes and low vaccination coverage. We recommend a Statewide YF risk assessment, mass YF vaccination campaign, vector control and enhanced YF surveillance is important to prevent future outbreaks and mortality.