Yellow Fever
Yellow fever (YF) is a mosquito-borne illness that carries a case-fatality rate of 20–50% for severe cases.
The illness is endemic in sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South and Central America. In 2016, there was an outbreak in Angola. In 2018, there were outbreaks in the Peruvian Amazon and Brazil. In Brazil, it moved southward, impinging on populated, built-up areas. In 2021 and 2022, there were outbreaks in Nigeria and Uganda, as well as eight other countries in central and western Africa. There have been recent cases in Peru, Brazil, Bolivia and Kenya.
Vaccination against yellow fever is relatively safe and extremely effective. Under international health regulations, proof of vaccination is a requirement for travel within endemic regions. Proof of vaccination may also be needed to re-enter Australia (and other non-endemic countries) after returning from endemic countries.
To comply with vaccination regulations, ensure you carry your yellow fever vaccination certification with your passport and travel documents. As of 11 July 2016, the validity of the vaccination certificate changed from 10 years to the duration of the life of the person vaccinated, regardless of the date of the initial vaccination. We recommend you take a copy of your certificate, which makes it easier to replace in case of loss. Booster doses may be recommended after 10 years in some instances: initial doses given during pregnancy or in HIV+ individuals, or if travelling to an area with a yellow fever outbreak.
![]({"file":"541a564a-7cbe-485c-b9c2-f7575624f25f.jpg","breakpoints":{"xs":{"width":480,"mode":"resize","quality":80},"md":{"width":720,"mode":"resize","quality":80},"xl":{"width":1920,"mode":"resize","quality":80}}} "Aedes Mosquito")
Symptoms
Yellow fever symptoms occur three to six days after being bitten by an infected Aedes mosquito (Haemagogus sp. in jungle areas) and include fever, abdominal pain and vomiting. The ‘yellow’ in the name refers to the yellowing of the skin, which is due to severe jaundice caused by liver failure.
Prevention
Vaccination for yellow fever is mandatory in most cases if you are travelling to or from a country with a declared presence of yellow fever. As there is no treatment for yellow fever, vaccination is crucial to your safety when travelling in endemic areas. You should also avoid mosquitoes, use insect repellent, avoid wearing fragrances, and wear light, full-coverage clothing.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for yellow fever, and it has a high mortality rate.
Destinations
The following destinations are known to contain this disease:
Disclaimer: The following information is intended as a guide only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
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