Passengers from Panama denied entry into Jamaica over yellow fever concern

Shanna Monteith, Gleaner Writer

A number passengers travelling from Panama on a Copa Airlines flight were today denied entry into Jamaica because they were not vaccinated against Yellow Fever.

Following a recent rise in disease in parts of Africa and South and Central America, the Health Ministry said travellers from yellow fever-endemic countries and those currently experiencing active transmission should show proof of yellow fever vaccination.

IN PHOTO: Dr Winston De La Haye

Chief Medical Officer Dr Winston De La Haye told The Gleaner/Power 106 News Centre this afternoon he was unable to say how many people were turned back.

But he said those denied entry were barred because they could not produce evidence they had received the yellow fever vaccine.

The Gleaner/Power 106 News Centre had earlier been told by sources that about half the flight had been denied entry.

De La Haye says Jamaicans travelling from affected countries will be monitored for symptoms.