How To Protect Yourself From Nature’s Colorful Curse: Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is a tricky adversary and it still exists in many countries in the Caribbean, Africa, and Central and South America. Anyone planning a trip to any of these regions should take all precautions necessary to protect themselves from this powerful and devastating scourge.

There are many things that the world traveler can do to make sure they are protected from this awful disease. Yellow fever is spread by the bite of a mosquito, specifically the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito species. Mosquitoes in the above mentioned geographical areas carry the yellow fever virus and should be avoided whenever and however possible.

To avoid mosquito bites be aware of peak mosquito hours. Although most mosquito peak biting times are from dusk to dawn, the mosquito that carries yellow fever feeds primarily in the daytime. Using insect repellant is a must when in areas of concern. Diligently apply an EPA-registered insect repellant on all exposed skin. These repellents should include picaridin, DEET or the very “green” oil of lemon eucalyptus. Even the most insect repellent-drenched individual can receive a bite, so caution is advised.

Remember to wear the proper clothing when outdoors in infected areas. Proper clothing includes long sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks. The fact is that most mosquitoes can bite right through thin clothing, so applying the insect repellent to your clothes will afford you another layer of protection.

At the end of the day, retiring under mosquito netting is great way to avoid bites while asleep. While these precautions make total sense, a yellow fever vaccination is your best bet against infection. Anyone traveling to infected areas is highly recommended to visit a designated yellow fever vaccination center. The vaccine has been used for decades and is safe and effective. In fact, one shot is good for ten years of protection. A booster shot is recommended after that time.

If located in the New York City area (including the five boroughs) and in need of a yellow fever vaccination—or any other travel related advice and/or medication—visit the Travel Clinic of New York. This clinic is a highly respected institution located in the heart of midtown at 274 Madison Avenue, suite 304, New York, NY 10016.

Before embarking on any trip log onto TravelClinicNY.com to receive all the information you will need to remain healthy and safe on your journey.