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Updated: Apr 27, 2026

A Multiplex Serological Assay for the Detection of Antibody Responses to Arboviruses
Published on: November 4, 2025
Yellow fever risk assessment in the Central African Republic
J Erin Staples1, Mawlouth Diallo2, Kristen B Janusz3
1Arboviral Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, CO, 80521, USA estaples@cdc.gov.
Background:
Starting in 2008, the Central African Republic (CAR) experienced an unprecedented number of reported yellow fever (YF) cases. A risk assessment of YF virus (YFV) activity was conducted to estimate potential disease risk and vaccine needs.
Methods:
A multistage cluster sampling design was used to sample humans, non-human primates, and mosquitoes in distinct ecologic zones. Humans and non-human primates were tested for YFV-specific antibodies; mosquitoes were tested for YFV RNA.
Results:
Overall, 13.3% (125/938) of humans were found to have naturally-acquired YFV antibodies. Antibody levels were higher in zones in the southern and south central regions of CAR. All sampled non-human primates (n=56) were known YFV reservoirs; one tested positive for YFV antibodies. Several known YF vectors were identified including Aedes africanus, Ae. aegypti, Ae. luteocephalus, and Ae. simpsoni. Several more urban locations were found to have elevated Breateau and Container indices for Ae. aegypti.
Conclusions:
A country-wide assessment of YF risk found YFV to be endemic in CAR. The potential for future YF cases and outbreaks, however, varied by ecologic zone. Improved vaccination coverage through mass campaign and childhood immunization was recommended to mitigate the YF risk.
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