Yellow Fever Vaccination

What is Yellow Fever?

Yellow Fever is a serious viral illness spread by infected mosquitoes in tropical areas of Africa and South America. It can cause severe symptoms including jaundice (yellowing of the skin), high fever, organ failure and in serious cases death. There is no specific antiviral treatment, vaccination is the only effective protection.

Is Yellow Fever vaccination mandatory?

For many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and South America, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is a legal entry requirement. Without a valid ICVP certificate you may be refused entry or required to be vaccinated at the border. Even where it is not mandatory, the vaccine is strongly recommended for travel to risk areas.

Countries requiring proof of Yellow Fever vaccination include (but are not limited to): Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia and Colombia.

About the vaccine

A single dose of the Yellow Fever vaccine provides lifelong protection for most people. No booster is currently recommended. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before travel for it to become effective and for the ICVP certificate to become valid.

An International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), your Yellow Fever certificate, will be issued at your appointment. This is a stamped, official document that is valid for life and required for entry to many countries. Keep it safe, it is an official travel document.

Who can have it?

Most healthy adults can receive the Yellow Fever vaccine. It is not suitable for:

• Infants under 6 months
• People with a severe allergy to egg
• Those with a weakened immune system
• Pregnant women (seek specialist advice)

A full suitability checklist will be completed at your appointment.