When traveling to regions with a high prevalence of yellow fever, a highly effective vaccine can safeguard you from the disease. However, even with vaccination, it's essential to take precautions against bug bites, as insects like mosquitoes can transmit other dangerous infections. Discover more about the yellow fever vaccine at Cheltenham Travel clinic a designated yellow fever vaccination centre, and ensure your health and well-being during your travels. Keep reading to find out additional information about this vital immunisation.
Which travellers should have the Yellow Fever vaccination?
For travellers above the age of 9 heading to specific countries, getting vaccinated against yellow fever is strongly advised. These countries include regions like Trinidad in the Caribbean, South America, and Sub-Saharan Africa, where yellow fever is a concern. Additionally, some nations require a certificate confirming your yellow fever vaccination.
To ensure sufficient protection, it's essential to receive the vaccination at least ten days before your trip, allowing ample time for it to take effect. If you or your child have recently received the MMR shot, it's advisable to wait for four weeks before getting the yellow fever vaccination. If maintaining a 4-week gap is not feasible, you can still receive the yellow fever vaccination, but consider getting a second dose of MMR at a later date. For individuals who remain at risk, the yellow fever vaccination can be administered again on a personal basis.
Is the Yellow Fever vaccination suitable for travellers aged 60 or over?
For individuals aged 60 years and above, the yellow fever vaccination is available if they are in good physical condition and aware of the associated risks with immunisation. The vaccine should be considered only if their destination poses a genuine risk of yellow fever virus, not solely for certificate purposes. Our travel specialists will have discussions with them, assessing the risk of contracting an illness at their destination and potential vaccine side effects. This process will aid in making an informed decision about vaccination.
Which countries require the vaccination?
Travelers coming from regions where yellow fever is prevalent and journeying to countries with a risk of transmission often require proof of immunization. In some cases, this requirement may also apply to travellers passing through these countries during their journey. Further information can be found here: https://nathnacyfzone.org.uk/factsheet/60/yellow-fever-vaccine-recommendation-maps
Can I travel without the vaccination?
If there is a reason that makes the vaccination unsuitable for you, a medical professional may not be able to administer it. A similar situation could arise if it is determined that the potential serious side effects of the vaccination outweigh the risk of contracting the disease. In certain circumstances, a medical exemption certificate may be issued if the risk of disease is considered low. However, this will only be done with your consent.
Please note:
The medical exemption certificate is valid for one journey only.
While the vaccine protects against yellow fever, it does not offer protection against infections caused by mosquito bites. Your health assessment must be updated for subsequent journeys.
Prepare your luggage and set off on a captivating journey around the world. Get in touch with us today at Cheltenham Travel Clinic to arrange your Yellow Fever vaccinations.
