Protect Yourself against the Yellow Fever Virus

            If you’re planning on traveling in Africa or Latin America in the near future, you may need to think beyond packing sunscreen and booking accommodations.  Visiting many countries in the regions carries high risk of contracting yellow fever. 

            Yellow fever is a serious disease caused by the yellow fever virus.  It is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito, and cannot be passed among humans.  Typically, people with yellow fever have to be hospitalized.  It can cause fever, jaundice, bleeding, organ failure, and even death in many serious cases.  There is no cure for the virus, making prevention all the more important. 

            Other than avoiding mosquitoes, an almost impossible task, there is no other way to prevent the virus than getting vaccinated.  The yellow fever vaccination is only given at certain vaccination centers such as Travel Clinic New York.

            The vaccine is recommended by the CDC for most individuals traveling to high-risk areas over the age of 9 months as well as lab personnel who might come into contact with the virus.  Although people outside of high-risk areas are not recommended the vaccine, yellow fever can affect a wide geographic area, including the United States, and can prevent yellow fever wherever it may occur.  The risks are also relatively mild, making the vaccine suitable for the vast majority of people. 

            As if preventing yellow fever wasn’t sufficient reason to get vaccinated, many countries require proof of vaccination or a “yellow card” for entry.  A “yellow card” is given to all vaccinated persons and is valid between 10 days after vaccination and 10 years after vaccination.  If you have previously had the vaccine and are planning on traveling, make sure that it is up to date!

            If you have questions about the vaccine, please consult your doctor and the CDC's FAQs.