Yellow Fever Vaccine UK
Yellow fever vaccine gives you protection against a virus that can cause jaundice, organ damage, and bleeding, with a high risk of death in severe cases.
What is Yellow Fever?
Yellow fever is a serious and potentially fatal illness that has seen a rise in cases in the UK in recent years.
The virus is transmitted through infected mosquitoes and can result in significant symptoms such as fever, headache, jaundice, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. In rare instances, it may even prove fatal.
How can you get Yellow Fever?
Yellow fever (YF) transmission occurs in three distinct cycles:
Found in tropical rainforests of Africa and South America, this cycle involves the transmission of the virus between monkeys and jungle-breeding mosquitoes. Humans can contract the virus if they live or work in these areas.
This cycle occurs in moist savannah regions where humans live and work near monkey populations. The virus spreads between monkeys and humans via infected mosquitoes.
After contracting the virus during the jungle cycle, infected humans can bring the virus into densely populated urban areas.
In these settings, transmission occurs between humans through mosquitoes that breed in and around human habitations.
How is the Yellow Fever Vaccine given?
A highly effective vaccine is available to protect against yellow fever, particularly for those travelling to regions where the virus is prevalent. The vaccine is administered as an injection into the upper arm.
However, even after vaccination, it’s crucial to take precautions against insect bites, as mosquitoes can also transmit other serious diseases.
How long will each appointment take?
Each appointment will take around 30 minutes.
The yellow fever vaccine is recommended for individuals aged 9 months and older who are travelling to:
Regions where yellow fever is prevalent, including parts of sub-Saharan Africa, South America, Central America, and Trinidad in the Caribbean.
Countries that require a certificate of vaccination against yellow fever for entry.
Certain countries require proof of vaccination before allowing entry. This proof is provided in the form of an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP).
All yellow fever vaccination certificates are now valid for life, even those that previously had an expiration date. You’ll receive this certificate when you get vaccinated at an authorised yellow fever vaccination centre.
It is advised to get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel to ensure the vaccine has enough time to become effective.
Signs and symptoms of Yellow Fever
In the early stages, typically three to six days after being bitten by an infected mosquito, yellow fever symptoms may include:
Early symptoms
Having a fever
Having a headache
Nausea
Being sick
Body aches and pains
Having a loss of appetite
Feeling unwell
Serious symptoms
jaundice
Dark urine
Stomach pain
Bleeding in vomit or stool
Bleeding from the body parts
When symptoms progress to this more severe stage, the condition can become life-threatening, so it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
Next Day Appointments are Available
How does it work?
Book an appointment & pay online
Fill an online form and select a time slot to save time at your appointment.
Get Your First Dose
Get a free consultation in our clinic, discuss your course options with our healthcare experts and receive your first vaccination.
Follow-up Dose(s)
You’ll get to know about followup doses during your first appointment.
FAQs
You must receive the yellow fever vaccine at least ten days before travelling to allow it sufficient time to take effect. Your vaccination certificate will only become valid after this period.
The yellow fever vaccine can cause some side effects, but the risk of not being vaccinated generally outweighs the risk of these effects. After receiving the vaccine, up to one in three people may experience:
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Elevated temperature
- Soreness at the injection site
The yellow fever vaccine typically costs between £60 and £85.
Certain countries mandate proof of vaccination for entry, provided as an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP). All yellow fever vaccination certificates, including those previously marked with an expiry date, are now valid for life. You will receive this certificate upon vaccination at a designated yellow fever vaccination center.
The yellow fever vaccine typically offers lifelong protection for most individuals. However, a booster dose may be recommended for certain travelers who have been previously vaccinated under specific conditions, such as:
- During pregnancy
- Under the age of two
- Living with HIV
- Having a weakened immune system
- Before undergoing a bone marrow transplant
Additionally, a booster may be advised if there are concerns about the traveller’s exposure risk, such as working or residing in a high-risk area for an extended period.
The rabies vaccine is not available for free on the NHS. However, you can get the rabies vaccine at Leeds Travel Clinic.
Ready to Get Vaccinated?
