Disease and Immunization Facts
AIDS | Cholera | Hepatitis A | Hepatitis B | Influenza | Japanese Encephalitis | Malaria | Measles, Mumps, Rubella | Meningococcal Disease | Rabies | Tetanus, Diphtheria and Poliomyelitis | Tuberculosis | Typhoid Fever | Yellow Fever | Dengue Fever
Yellow Fever
What Is It?
Yellow fever is a viral illness, carried by some species of mosquitoes in Central and South America, and in tropical regions of Africa. A mild attack may have symptoms similar to those of the flu. More severe symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, bleeding, abdominal pains and yellowing of the skin as a result of liver damage.
Where Is It?
Yellow Fever is a viral disease endemic in the Sub-Saharan Africa and South America.
Prevention Tips
Your best defense is to avoid mosquito bites altogether, but travelers can reduce their risk of acquiring yellow fever by:
-
Take precautions against exposure to mosquitoes when traveling in areas with yellow fever transmission
-
Remaining in well-screened or air conditioned areas when possible
-
Wearing clothing that adequately covers the arms and legs
-
Applying DEET-containing insect repellent to both skin and clothing
-
Yellow Fever vaccination may be required for entry if you are traveling to, or transiting through, a country where the disease exists
Consult with your local Kelsey-Seybold Travel Clinic to determine if your travel itinerary will require you to be immunized for yellow fever.
Available Immunizations
Immunization is required in certain countries. The vaccine must be administered at an approved yellow fever vaccination center. Contact your local state health department for the nearest vaccination center. Vaccinees should receive complete International Certificate of vaccination, signed and validated with the center's stamp where the vaccine was given.
This certificate is valid 10 days after vaccination and for a subsequent period of 10 years. This certificate should be carried with your passport at all times.
