Yellow Fever is a serious and potentially fatal viral disease that is spread by mosquitoes in tropical parts of Africa and South America. It occurs in both jungle and urban environments and is particularly common in the rainy season.

About the vaccine

• When to get vaccinated: At least 10 days before you travel.
• Boosters: The yellow fever vaccine lasts a lifetime. Most people won’t need any boosters for future travel.
• Course: One dose.
• How it is given: The yellow fever vaccine consists of an injection usually given in your upper arm.
• How long does the Yellow Fever vaccine last? The yellow fever vaccine protect you for life (there are some exceptions, such as under 2 year olds who may need a booster)
• Side effects: Serious side effects from the yellow fever vaccine are rare. Common side effects include soreness at the injection site, headache and pain.
• Children: Not usually recommended for children under nine months.
• Additional precautions: In addition to getting vaccinated you need to practise mosquito bite avoidance.
• Certificate requirements: Some countries require a yellow fever certificate. Your certificate becomes valid 10 days after you have had the jab.
• Risk if you contract yellow fever: Yellow fever can range from a mild flu-like illness to a fatal disease which causes internal bleeding and organ

The yellow fever jab is available here at Charlton Pharmacy, which is a registered yellow fever centre. You need to arrange your vaccine for a date at least ten days before you travel. Once you have received the vaccine, you are protected for life (there are some exceptions to this rule, under 2 year olds for example may need a booster).
Please note that a four week minimum interval period should ideally be observed between the administration of MMR and Yellow Fever vaccines to ensure these are effective. It is not generally recommended for patients over 60 years old. If you think you need protection from yellow fever urgently and leaving this gap may not be possible, please talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for advice.