Yellow Fever
Yellow fever is a serious viral disease transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. It occurs mainly in parts of Africa, South America, and Central America and can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild fever to severe organ failure. In some cases, yellow fever can be fatal, making vaccination essential for travellers visiting affected regions.
Yellow fever is caused by a virus carried by Aedes mosquitoes, which are active during the daytime. After being bitten by an infected mosquito, symptoms typically develop within 3 to 6 days. These may include fever, chills, headaches, muscle pain, nausea, and fatigue. In more severe cases, the disease can progress to cause jaundice (yellowing of the skin), bleeding, and organ complications.
It’s estimated that 200,000 cases of yellow fever occur worldwide each year, leading to approximately 30,000 deaths. While rare in UK travellers, the risk is significant in certain destinations, particularly where access to medical care is limited. Many countries require an International Certificate of Vaccination as proof of immunisation before entry.
If you’re travelling to an area where yellow fever is present, it is essential to ensure you are protected before you go.
Prevention
The most effective way to protect yourself against yellow fever is through vaccination. The yellow fever vaccine is a highly effective, single-dose injection that provides long-lasting, often lifelong protection. Travellers should also follow mosquito bite prevention measures when visiting affected regions:
– Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil
– Wear long-sleeved tops and long trousers, particularly during daylight hours
– Sleep under a mosquito net if accommodation is not well-screened or air-conditioned
– Stay in areas with good mosquito control where possible
Some countries require proof of vaccination before allowing entry. Your vaccination will be recorded on an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), which becomes valid 10 days after receiving the jab.
Yellow Fever Vaccine
The yellow fever vaccine is recommended for anyone travelling to or passing through areas where yellow fever is present, particularly in parts of Africa, South America, and Central America. At Brixton Travel Clinic, we are a designated yellow fever vaccination centre, and our team can provide both the vaccine and the official ICVP certificate.
Who should have the vaccine:
– Travellers visiting countries where yellow fever is present
– Travellers entering countries that require proof of vaccination for entry
– Long-stay travellers or those visiting rural areas in high-risk regions
Who may not be suitable for the vaccine:
– Babies under six months old
– People with a weakened immune system
– Those with severe allergies to egg proteins
– Individuals with certain chronic medical conditions
Our travel health specialists will review your medical history and destination to confirm whether the vaccine is suitable for you.
When to Get Vaccinated
You should aim to have your yellow fever vaccine at least 10 days before you travel to ensure full protection and to allow your certificate to become valid in time for your trip.
Last-minute travellers can still receive the vaccine closer to departure, but you may need to check the entry requirements of your destination country if a certificate is mandatory.
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