First Case of Yellow Fever in French Guiana since 1902
1999

First Case of Yellow Fever in French Guiana since 1902

Sample size: 1 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): J.M. Heraud, D. Hommel, A. Hulin, V. Deubel, J.D. Poveda, J.L. Sarthou, A. Talarmin

Primary Institution: Institut Pasteur de la Guyane

Conclusion

The first case of yellow fever in French Guiana since 1902 was confirmed through postmortem liver biopsies and RT-PCR testing.

Supporting Evidence

  • The patient showed characteristic symptoms of yellow fever and had a positive RT-PCR for the virus.
  • Histopathological examination revealed liver damage typical of yellow fever.
  • The case highlights the importance of vaccination and monitoring for yellow fever in areas where it has been absent.

Takeaway

A woman in French Guiana got sick and died from yellow fever, which hadn't been seen there for a long time. Doctors found the virus in her liver after she passed away.

Methodology

The study involved serologic testing, RT-PCR, and histopathological examination of liver biopsies.

Limitations

The diagnosis required confirmation by virus detection, which was challenging due to the timing of serum sample collection.

Participant Demographics

The patient was an Amerindian woman living in a forest area.

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