Yellow Fever Vaccine

What is Yellow Fever?

Yellow fever is a viral infection commonly found in sub-Saharan Africa and South America. Some countries may require you have an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) before you travel. The vaccine is administered in a single dose at least 10 days before travel and provides lifelong protection.

How is the yellow fever spread?

Mosquito bites are the only way to get infected with yellow fever. Those mosquitos are usually found in rural areas and towns and there are more chances to get bitten by one during the day.  Even if you got the vaccine administered to you, you should still try to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes when travelling to these areas. Other illnesses spread by mosquitos include malaria and dengue. For extra protection, you should wear clothing that covers your entire body, mosquito nets, and insect repellent. 

Who should have the Yellow Fever Vaccine? 

✔ If you’re planning on travelling to a country where yellow fever can be found, such as tropical and subtropical areas of sub-Saharan Africa and South America as well as parts of Central America and the Caribbean, it is recommended you get the vaccine done. 

✔ Some countries may require you to have an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) before you travel. Once you get vaccinated, you will be given the certificate. Have a look at the countries that require you to have the certificate. You don’t need the certificate to entry back in the UK. 

✔ Anyone older than 9 months old can have the vaccine administered ot them. 

✔ You should get the vaccine at least ten days before you depart in order to let the effect of the vaccine take place. 

Who should not have the yellow fever vaccine?

✔ If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should not have the vaccine;

✔ Infants under 9 months should not have it;

✔ Anyone over 60 years old;

✔ If you have a weak immune system (anyone with HIV, egg, chicken proteins allergies, etc) If you are unsure, please get in touch with us and our GPs will be able to advise you on the best measures;

✔ Have a history of thymus dysfunction or thymectomy;

✔ You are on immunosuppressant medication such as the chemotherapy treatments steroids, methotrexate, etc.

How long does the Yellow Fever Vaccine last?

Administered as a single shot in your upper arm, the yellow fever vaccine will be effective throughout your entire life. The certificate you will get will also remain valid for life. 

Do I need to get a yellow vaccine booster?

✔ If your last yellow fever vaccine was administered 10 years ago;
✔ If you’re travelling again to an area where yellow fever can be found;
✔ If you got your vaccine when you were only 2 years old or pregnant;

Are there any side effects?

Although there are some minor side effects, it is usually recommended to have a vaccine rather than get infected with yellow fever.  You might experience a headache, some muscle pain or a mild fever. They should only occur during the first 14 days after you got the vaccine and usually, they do not last more than 3 days. If you are persistently feeling unwell after the vaccine, please contact us right away.