Yellow Fever

What is Yellow Fever?

It is a virus that is transmitted by infected mosquitos mostly found in tropical areas such as Africa and South America. There is no medicine to treat or cure infection. To prevent getting sick from yellow fever, use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and get vaccinated.

Some symptoms include: fever, aches & pains, chills, weakness, and more sever symptoms such as: yellowing skin (aka jaundice), liver failure/disease, bleeding, and organ failure.

Dosage & Instructions

The vaccine is a live, weakened form of the virus given as a single shot. A safe and effective yellow fever vaccine has been available for more than 80 years.

Certificate

Once you have been vaccinated, you will receive your yellow card International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) as proof that you have been immunized against yellow fever. South American and Central African nations may ask travelers to prove their vaccination status before entering the country.

Remember that your yellow card is not valid until 10 days after you’ve been vaccinated. Be sure to make your vaccination appointment in advance.

Protection

A single dose provides lifelong protection for most people.

Recommend For

The vaccine is recommended for people age 9 months or older and those who are traveling to (or living in) areas at risk for the virus in Africa and South America. The Yellow fever vaccine may be required for entry into certain countries.

Vaccination requirements and recommendations for specific countries are available on the CDC Travelers’ Health page.

Need other travel vaccines? View our list of vaccinations here.