Kenya is witnessing a rise in mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever, chikungunya, and drug-resistant malaria. Among these, yellow fever stands out as a major threat due to its high contagion rate and potentially fatal consequences if left untreated.
Yellow fever, transmitted by mosquito bites, is endemic in Kenya, and health experts stress that vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure. Each year, the disease affects millions across sub-Saharan Africa, with many cases turning deadly due to lack of treatment.
Recent outbreaks in neighboring Uganda and reports of infections in Kenya’s Rift Valley region have made proof of immunisation mandatory for international travel. This particularly affects pilgrims heading to Saudi Arabia for Hajj, who must present valid yellow fever vaccination certificates.
Despite the serious health implications, a growing number of travelers are obtaining fake yellow fever certificates to bypass vaccination. Some individuals, in a hurry to travel, purchase blank immunisation cards, fill them in, and have them stamped without receiving the vaccine. Motivations include fear of injections, ignorance, and the cost of the vaccine, which ranges from Sh4,000 at public centres to higher rates at private hospitals.
In some cases, vaccines are not administered at all, yet certificates are issued. This is reportedly common in cities like Mombasa, where many travelers need the documentation for Hajj. Travelers in urgent need often resort to falsifying vaccination dates to meet the ten-day immunity window required for valid certification.
Authorities are now using technology to detect forged cards, and those found guilty face serious consequences such as deportation or prosecution. This is critical, as yellow fever affects 35 African countries and causes millions of infections globally each year. Without vaccination or timely medical intervention, the disease can lead to death.
Yellow fever can range from mild to severe illness. Early symptoms include fever, body ache, back pain, nausea, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can cause jaundice, bleeding, organ failure, and shock. Approximately 15% of symptomatic cases develop into the severe form, with recovery taking weeks or months.
The disease is spread by Aedes mosquitoes. Prevention includes using insect repellent every four hours, clearing stagnant water, destroying mosquito breeding grounds, and wearing protective clothing. Individuals with health conditions or those pregnant should seek medical advice before getting vaccinated.
With treatment costs around Sh10,000 and no specific cure available, prevention remains crucial. Antibiotics are ineffective against yellow fever, being a viral infection. This makes vaccination and community awareness key to curbing its spread and protecting public health.
