Yellow Fever
Yellow fever is a viral infection transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitos in endemic areas. It is found in the tropical regions of Africa, South and Central America and the Caribbean. There is no specific treatment if the disease is contracted. Symptoms usually occur within 3-4 days.
Prevention
Vaccination is effective at preventing yellow fever and entry to some countries requires evidence of yellow fever vaccination or exemption. Only designated centres are able to perform yellow fever vaccination.
Even if vaccinated still take precautions to reduce the chance of being bitten by mosquitos by:
- Cover exposed skin by wearing long sleeved shirts, trousers & socks
- Using a good insect repellent
- Use a mosquito net which is big enough to cover you without leaving any gaps
- The mosquito that causes yellow fever is mostly active during the day
Symptoms
Initial symptoms include:
- High temperature
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
Most patients improve and symptoms resolve but in a small proportion they may go on to more serious disease which can result in jaundice, abdominal pain and vomiting, bleeding from the mouth, nose, eyes and gastrointestinal tract and death in 50% of cases.
Yellow Fever Vaccination
Vaccine: Stamaril
Schedule
Single dose
Price:
£67
Duplicate and exemption certificates
£20
Please note:
A previous vaccination is now valid for life, not 10 years as previously stated on certificates. If you have your original certificate it will now still be valid, even if it states for 10 years. According to World Health Organization (WHO), from 11 July 2016 (for all countries), the yellow fever certificate will be valid for the duration of the life of the person vaccinated. As a consequence, a valid certificate, presented by arriving travellers, cannot be rejected on the grounds that more than ten years have passed since the date vaccination became effective as stated on the certificate; and that boosters or revaccination cannot be required.