CDC Updates Monkeypox Travel Alert for Nigeria

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updates an existing Level 1 Travel Alert for Monkeypox in the Federal Republic of Nigeria

There is an ongoing outbreak of Monkeypox in Nigeria, resulting in over 50 confirmed cases in 2019.On October 18, 2018, CDC issued a Travel Notice for Monkeypox in Nigeria. This notice was updated recently to reflect the current status. Additionally, the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) has reported five cases of Monkeypox in travelers with recent travel history from Nigeria to the UK (3), Singapore (1) and Israel (1).

Level 1 Travel Notice for Monkeypox

Lassa fever is caused by a virus carried by rodents, most often in rural areas or areas with poorly constructed housing. Given the current outbreak in Nigeria, you should avoid contact with rodents, and seek medical care if you develop a fever or “flu symptoms”.

Level 1 Travel Notice for Lassa Fever

Yellow fever vaccination is a “must” before travel to Nigeria. Your yellow card showing vaccination status will be checked on arrival.

Level 2 Travel Notice for Yellow Fever

Actions to Take:

Check that your international medical and evacuation insurance is current.
Visit the CDC Travelers’ Health Pageand the CDC Travel Notices on Yellow Fever, Monkeypox, and Lassa Fever in Nigeria, which has information on this outbreak and advice on further steps to take.
See the State Department’s travel websiteand Country Specific Information for Nigeria
Take necessary precautions described on the CDC’s website to avoid infection, especially if visiting rural or rainforest areas
Seek immediate medical care OR contact a doctor right away if you become ill with a blistering rash.
Monitor local media and NCDC website for updates.
Regularly visit the CDC Travelers Health Page.
Consult the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for country health advisories, or call CDC at 800-232-4636 or 404-639-3534.