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BOGOTA: Colombia has declared a nationwide health emergency after at least 34 people died of yellow fever, according to official figures.
Yellow fever is caused by a virus transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes. It can be prevented by a vaccine which in most cases provides lifelong protection.
The government has urged people to get vaccinated ahead of the Easter weekend, a time when many Colombians travel to warmer areas where the mosquitos that spread the disease are more prevalent. Health Minister Guillermo Alfonso Jaramillo said those going to high-risk areas would be required to show proof of vaccination. (Agencies)
