travel medicine
Yellow Fever
What you need to know before you travel
The Woods Medical Centre is an accredited Yellow Fever Vaccine Provider. To book an appointment, please call us.
To book a travel doctor appointment, please call (08) 9245 1912
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What is Yellow Fever?
Yellow fever is a serious viral infection spread by infected mosquitoes in parts of:
- Africa
- South America
Vaccination is a requirement for entry into some countries where travel has occurred or is planned to these regions.
Yellow fever can range from a mild illness to a severe, life-threatening disease with organ failure and bleeding.
Who should get vaccinated against Yellow fever?
- Travelers going to or through countries where yellow fever is present.
- Those entering countries requiring proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Is the vaccine safe?
- Yes – for most healthy individuals over 9 months of age.
- Common mild side effects: soreness at the injection site, low fever, headache.
- Rare, serious side effects: allergic reaction, or yellow fever vaccine–associated disease. This risk increases with age, so careful consideration of risks and benefits are required for those older than 60 years of age. Your travel doctor will advise if this vaccine is right for you and your circumstances.
When to seek medical attention
If you develop fever, jaundice, or unexplained bleeding within 6 days to 1 week after returning from a risk area, seek immediate medical attention and mention your travel history.
How does Yellow Fever spread?
- Through the bite of infected mosquitoes.
- It is not spread person-to-person.
Yellow fever symptoms
Symptoms usually appear 3–6 days after a mosquito bite and may include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle pain (especially back pain)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Bleeding, organ failure and death in rare, severe cases
Preventing Yellow Fever
The best protection is vaccination and mosquito bite avoidance:
Yellow Fever Vaccine
- A single dose provides lifelong protection for most people.
- Must be given at least 10 days before travel to risk areas.
- A certificate of vaccination is often required to enter certain countries.
- Not suitable for some people (e.g., those with weakened immune systems, certain allergies, or under 6 months old) — consult your healthcare provider.
Avoid Mosquito Bites
- Use insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, or other recommended ingredients.
- Wear long-sleeved clothing and pants.
- Sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets where needed.
- Stay in accommodations with screens or air conditioning.
