Yellow Fever Vaccine

When to book the yellow fever vaccine

You may need the yellow fever vaccine if you:

• Are travelling to parts of Africa or South America
• Are visiting a country that requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for entry
• Plan to spend time in rural or jungle areas where mosquitoes are common

Some countries require an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), commonly called the yellow fever certificate, before allowing entry. The vaccine is not routinely available on the NHS and is provided through designated travel vaccination centres and trained pharmacies.

What is yellow fever?

Yellow fever is a viral disease spread by infected mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti, found mainly in tropical and subtropical areas of Africa and South America. It can range from mild illness to severe disease affecting the liver and other organs. Symptoms include:

• High fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Feeling generally unwell

Severe cases need urgent medical care, and vaccination is the most effective prevention.

How the vaccination service works

• Travel health consultation - your pharmacist reviews your destination, travel plans and medical history
• Vaccination - a quick injection in the upper arm in a private consultation room
• Certificate - you may receive the International Certificate of Vaccination required for entry to certain countries

Avoiding mosquito bites

• Use insect repellent containing DEET
• Wear long-sleeved clothing and trousers in mosquito-prone areas
• Sleep under a mosquito net where needed
• Stay in accommodation with screened windows or air conditioning

Find yellow fever vaccination near you

Professional travel health consultations, experienced pharmacist vaccinators and private consultation rooms. Use the postcode search above to find your nearest participating Allied Pharmacy.