Yellow Fever: Vaccine and Certificate Essentials

Yellow Fever is a significant health concern in many parts of the world, however, with the availability of the yellow fever vaccine and accompanying certificate, individuals can protect themselves when travelling to regions where the disease is endemic (constantly present in a particular region).

What is Yellow Fever?

Yellow Fever is a vaccine-preventable viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and South America.

The virus is spread through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, which mainly bite during the day.

Yellow Fever can cause serious illness and even death, especially in individuals who have not been vaccinated.

Understanding the risks associated with Yellow Fever and taking appropriate precautions while travelling to endemic countries is important.

Symptoms 

Most people develop a mild illness and then fully recover.

Symptoms of Yellow Fever include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle Pain
  • Nausea
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes.) Where the name comes from

A small proportion of people develop severe illness with bleeding and organ failure. The death rate is high in people who develop severe symptoms.

What is my risk of contracting Yellow Fever?

The risk of contracting Yellow Fever is determined by the following factors:

  • Country of destination
  • Intensity of YF transmission in the area to be visited
  • Season of travel
  • Duration of Travel
  • Activities allowing exposure to mosquitoes
  • Immunisation status
How to prevent contracting Yellow Fever?

 

What is a Yellow Fever Certificate?

A yellow Fever Certificate, also known as an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (IVCP), serves as proof of a vaccine against yellow fever.

The certificate is required for travellers visiting countries where Yellow Fever is endemic or for those travelling from such regions to other countries. It is an essential document for international travel and may be requested by immigration authorities upon entry into certain countries.

The certificate is valid 10 days following administration of the vaccine, so you must seek advice as soon as you know you are travelling to a potentially Yellow Fever Risk area.

 

Where to get a Yellow Fever Vaccine?

Obtaining the Yellow Fever vaccine is crucial for travellers planning to visit regions where the disease is prevalent. Yellow fever vaccination centres are typically found in travel clinics, pharmacies, and general practices and are registered as yellow fever centres under NaTHNaC (National Health Network and Centre).

 

How to Get a Replacement Yellow Fever Certificate in the UK

Losing a Yellow Fever certificate can be stressful, especially when planning international travel. In the UK, individuals can request a replacement certificate from the healthcare provider where they received the original vaccination.

 

How Long Does Yellow Fever Vaccine Last?

The Yellow Fever Vaccine provides long-term protection against the disease. According to the WHO (World Health Organisation), a single dose of the vaccine is considered to provide lifelong immunity in most individuals. Therefore, booster doses are not routinely recommended for travellers unless they may not have developed long-term protection from their initial Yellow Fever vaccination. (Book an appointment to discuss further)

 

What is the Cost of The Yellow Fever Vaccine?

The Yellow Fever vaccine’s cost can vary depending on where you receive it.

It is unavailable on the NHS and typically costs between £60 – £100.

 

Will I need a Yellow Fever Vaccine or just a Certificate?

This is a question we at Travel Jab Guru are asked frequently. The answer depends on various factors:

  • What countries are you visiting?
  • What areas in the country are you travelling to?
  • Have you been vaccinated before?
  • Do you have proof of your past vaccine?

We can answer all of these questions for you. Book a video consultation with our Nurse Specialist who will be able to answer all your questions regarding the Yellow Fever vaccine and other vaccines you may need for your trip.

BOOK HERE!

 

Suggested Links

Yellow Fever Vaccine – Fit for Travel

NaTHNaC – Yellow fever (travelhealthpro.org.uk)

 

 

Written by Amanda Howarth – March 2024

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