Looking to jet off on your holidays? We know that after over a year of not travelling, you may be looking to broaden your horizons to destinations such as the Caribbean or South America. However, before you head off, it is vital that you get a yellow fever vaccine in Coventry.
It is easy to become overwhelmed with all of the preparations involved before you go; that’s why we are here to help. As a Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre, we have put together this ultimate guide to yellow fever. Keep reading to find out what yellow fever is and why you need the vaccine so that you don’t get caught out.
Yellow fever is a virus that spreads through infected mosquito bites. The mosquitoes in question mainly bite during the day. Generally, they are found in towns, cities and rural areas within high-risk countries.
You will need to get a vaccine if you are visiting destinations such as:
– Parts of Central and South America
– Trinidad (in the Caribbean)
– In parts of Sub-Saharan Africa
It is important to note that some countries require proof that you have been vaccinated before you enter. Therefore, it is essential that you check travel guidance for the relevant country in advance.
You can find out more about the yellow fever vaccine certificate and our status as a Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre here:
Ordinarily, the symptoms are as follows:
– Vomiting or feeling sick
– A high temperature
– Feeling generally unwell
– Developing eye sensitivity to light
– Backache and muscle pain
– A loss of appetite
Up to 1 in 4 people also suffer from symptoms such as:
– Jaundice
– Bleeding from the eyes, mouth or ears
– Vomiting blood or blood in their poo
Ultimately, you should get the vaccine at least 10 days before you are due to travel. This will allow plenty of time for the vaccine to work. However, it is important to note that if you or your child have recently had the MMR vaccine, you should wait at least 4 weeks before having the yellow fever one.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for yellow fever. However, your symptoms can be treated if you are fighting the infection; the majority of people will fully recover after 3-4 days. Although, up to half of those experiencing more severe symptoms will die.
Other than having your vaccine, there are several methods you can use to try and fend off mosquitoes.
These include:
– Using mosquito nets
– Using insect repellent containing 30-50% DEET
– Wearing clothes that cover your arms and legs
You can find more guidance on how to prevent insect bites on the NHS website.
The vaccine is the most effective way for you to develop protection. Ultimately, it is vital that you consider any vaccinations and preparations you may need to make well in advance of your trip. You can find out about the other vaccinations we offer in our ultimate travel clinic guide:
Generally, the vaccine protects you for life once you have had it. However, a booster dose is recommended if you had your jab whilst you met any of the following conditions:
– If you had the jab prior to having a bone marrow transplant
– Whilst you were living with HIV
– If you had the jab during pregnancy
– If you were under 2 years old
– In the event that you had a weak immune system
If you are looking to jet off, you can book online at your convenience. We would recommend booking as far in advance as possible to avoid getting caught out, so:
Contact us to book your vaccine today!
This blog post was written on behalf of The Travel Health Clinic by Carla Moore from Pharmacy Mentor.