Due to high demand and a vaccine shortage, the World Health Organization reduced the yellow fever vaccine dosage administered in places hardest hit by the yellow fever epidemic. A syringe shortage also recently complicated vaccination efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Misperceptions about the safety and efficacy of vaccines have also hindered efforts in the region.
“People take traditional plant-based medication which, when it comes to yellow fever, do more harm than good,” IFRC spokeswoman Camelia Marinescu told Reuters. “The message of our community mobilizers [is to] quickly go to the closest health center or hospital.”
To dispel myths, IFRC has been participating in door-to-door visits and a media campaign to spread yellow fever awareness. The organization is calling for 1.4 million in Swiss franc currency to continue their work.
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