|
The Disease
Yellow Fever is a serious haemorrhagic fever spread by mosquitoes. It is
characterised by fever, jaundice and bleeding.
Yellow fever is
fatal in more than 60% of cases.
Many countries have
visa requirements for yellow fever vaccination, particularly for those
planning to travel from or through an endemic or infected area.
Vaccination can only be performed by a government-registered provider,
such as Travelvax, and should be administered in conjunction with other
recommended vaccines.
Where is it found?
The disease occurs extensively in Africa and South America, and the
Central American country, Panama.
Risk to travellers
Yellow Fever occurs only rarely in travellers.
If travelling to a
country where Yellow fever is present, travellers should take precautions
against insect bites (See mosquito avoidance measures in malaria
section).
Vaccination
Type:
- Live attenuated
viral vaccine (Stamaril).
Standard schedule:
- Single dose
protects for 10 years (A Yellow fever vaccination certificate is
required to confirm vaccination).
Level of
protection:
- High level of
protection (almost 100%).
Possible side-effects:
- Redness,
swelling and pain at the injection site.
- Swelling of
glands under arms.
Seven to 10 days
after vaccination, a fever with stiff joints, tiredness, muscle pain and
headache may be experienced.
Those vaccinated
against Yellow fever should be observed for 30 minutes after injection.
As with all vaccines, there is a small risk of allergic reaction.
More information on this and related health risks will be
available during your Travelvax consultation. Call 1300 360 164 for the
location of your nearest clinic.
|