Do I Need a Yellow Fever Vaccine? A Guide for Travellers
Quick answer
You need a yellow fever vaccine if you’re going to an area with yellow fever risk in sub-Saharan Africa or tropical Central and South America, or to a country that asks for a vaccination certificate on entry. Have it at least 10 days before you arrive, so your certificate is valid. Summersdale Pharmacy in Chichester is a registered Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre, and the vaccine costs £80 including your certificate.
If you’re heading to parts of Africa or South America, you may need a yellow fever vaccine, and some countries won’t let you in without a certificate. Here’s what you need to know, from the pharmacists at our Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre in Chichester.
What is yellow fever?
Yellow fever is a viral infection spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes. Many people only have a mild illness, but some develop a severe form that affects the liver and kidneys and can be fatal. There’s no specific treatment, which is why vaccination matters.
Where is it a risk?
Yellow fever is found in parts of sub-Saharan Africa and tropical Central and South America. The risk can vary within a country, so where exactly you’re going, and for how long, makes a difference.
Do I need a certificate?
Some countries ask every traveller for proof of yellow fever vaccination. Others only ask if you’ve arrived from, or spent time in, a country with yellow fever risk, which can include long airport stopovers. Without a valid certificate you could be refused entry or vaccinated at the border.
Rules change, so always check close to your trip. You can look up each country on TravelHealthPro, and we’ll check your full itinerary at your appointment.
When should I have the vaccine?
At least 10 days before you arrive. Your International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) only becomes valid 10 days after vaccination. If you need other travel vaccines as well, try to book 6–8 weeks before you go.
How long does it last?
For most people, a single dose gives lifelong protection, and yellow fever certificates are now valid for life. A small number of people, such as those who were pregnant or had a weakened immune system when vaccinated, may need another dose. We’ll advise you.
Who shouldn’t have it?
Because it’s a live vaccine, it isn’t suitable for everyone. Our pharmacist will check your medical history first. Let us know if you:
- have a weakened immune system or take medicines that affect it
- are pregnant or breastfeeding
- have had a severe allergic reaction to eggs or a previous vaccine
- have had problems with your thymus gland
- are aged 60 or over, as the risk of rare serious side effects is a little higher
- are travelling with a baby under 9 months old
If the vaccine isn’t right for you, we can talk you through your options, including whether a medical exemption letter might help.
Are there side effects?
Most people have no problems or only mild ones, such as a sore arm, headache, aching muscles or a slight temperature for a few days. Serious reactions are rare, and our pharmacist will talk you through them before you decide.
Don’t forget mosquito bites
The vaccine protects you against yellow fever, but mosquitoes also spread other illnesses, including malaria and dengue. Use an effective insect repellent, cover up with long sleeves and trousers, and sleep under a mosquito net where needed. We can advise on malaria tablets at the same appointment.
Getting your yellow fever vaccine in Chichester
Only registered Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres can give the vaccine and issue the certificate. Summersdale Pharmacy on Lavant Road is a registered centre. The vaccine costs £80, including your certificate, and you can find out more or book online.