The East African Community Secretariat is considering re-introducing a policy which would require East Africans to show proof of yellow fever vaccination when crossing into Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi or Sudan, or be denied entry. This measure is partly due to ‘the recent increase in outbreaks in the region’; two yellow fever infections were reported from separate districts in Uganda (Koboko and Masaka) in early May. The policy would dictate that the vaccination certificate must show the date of validity to be at least 10 days before travel. According to the news article, ‘Travellers with an exemption certificate due to medical reasons will be allowed entry, but will be placed under quarantine and/or will be required to report any fever or other symptoms to health authorities.’ Read more
Advice for travellers
Yellow fever virus is a mosquito-borne disease found in tropical and subtropical areas in Central/South America and Africa. While it can be severe, yellow fever infection is a very rare in Australian travellers. However, under the International Health Regulations (IHR), proof of vaccination may be required of any traveller entering or leaving an area at risk of yellow fever transmission. Read more about yellow fever.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.