The yellow fever vaccine is a live, attenuated vaccine used to prevent yellow fever, a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, primarily found in Africa and South America. If you’re travelling to certain parts of these regions, you may be at risk of contracting yellow fever. Vaccination is a crucial measure to protect yourself from this potentially fatal disease.
A single dose of the yellow fever vaccine provides long-lasting protection for most people, making it an essential preventive measure for travelers and residents in areas where yellow fever transmission is a risk.
What is Yellow Fever?
Yellow fever is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes,typically affecting the kidneys and liver. It is found primarily in certainareas of Central and South America and Sub-Saharan Africa. Symptoms of yellow fever may include:
- High fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Loss of appetite
- Feeling unwell or fatigue
In severe cases, yellow fever can lead to fatal complications. Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to protect yourself against this disease.
Who Should Get the Yellow Fever Vaccine?
You should consider the yellow fever vaccine if:
- You are travelling to or going through countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission, certain parts in Africa or South/Central America.
- You are transiting for 12 hours or more at the airports of the listed countries.
Several countries require you to provide proof of yellow fever vaccination for entry. Therefore, you should be vaccinated at least 10 days before travelling to avoid being quarantined.
Who Should Not Get the Vaccine?
The yellow fever vaccine is not recommended for:
- Infants less than 9 months old
- People who are severely allergic to egg protein
- Pregnant mothers (unless going to a country with a high risk of infection during a yellow fever outbreak)
- People with a weakened immune system or with a thymus disorder.
About the yellow fever vaccine
Stamaril is the yellow fever vaccine available at Gleneagles Hospital Penang. The vaccine can be given to most people from 9 months of age. It typically takes around 10 days for most people to develop immunity from the vaccine.
A single dose of the yellow fever vaccine provides lifelong protection in the majority of people.
How Long Does the Yellow Fever Vaccine Last?
The yellow fever vaccine typically provides lifelong protection for most individuals. However, a booster dose may be recommended for certain travelers who are visiting high-risk areas, including those who were previously vaccinated under the following circumstances:
- During pregnancy
- When under 2 years old
- If living with HIV or a weakened immune system
- Before a bone marrow transplant
In rare cases, a further dose may be recommended if there are concerns about the traveler’s risk of yellow fever, such as when working or living in high-risk regions for an extended period.
Side Effects of the Yellow Fever Vaccine
The yellow fever vaccine may cause mild side effects such as headache, muscle pain, mild fever, and soreness at the injection site. These typically resolve within two weeks. However, the risk of not being vaccinated usually outweighs the risk of these side effects.
In rare cases, more serious side effects, including allergic reactions or issues affecting the brain and other organs, can occur. These rare complications are more likely in individuals over 60, those with weakened immune systems, or people with thymus disorders.
If you feel unwell after vaccination, seek medical advice promptly.
Yellow Fever International Certificate
The Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is valid for life and accepted internationally.
The yellow fever vaccine certificate will be valid beginning 10 days after vaccination.
How to Book a Yellow Fever Vaccine Appointment
To schedule your yellow fever vaccine appointment, contact Gleneagles Hospital Penang at:
At the appointment, we will conduct screening questions to ensure you are eligible for the vaccine.
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