Planning a trip to a tropical destination? Exciting times are ahead, but before you pack your bags, there’s one important thing you should tick off your travel checklist: the yellow fever jab. Yellow fever is a serious viral infection that you can catch from mosquito bites in certain parts of Africa and South America. Ensuring you’re vaccinated is crucial for your health and safety. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what yellow fever is, why the yellow fever jab is so important, and how you can get prepared for your adventures abroad.

Yellow Fever: What, Where, How?

Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes and Haemagogus species. It is endemic in certain parts of Africa and South America, and travellers to these regions are at risk of contracting the disease. The virus affects the liver and other internal organs, leading to symptoms ranging from mild to severe, meaning that it is really important to make sure that you are fit for travel.

Symptoms

The symptoms of yellow fever can vary widely, but they typically appear 3 to 6 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The disease can manifest in two phases:

1. Acute Phase:
   • Fever
   • Headache
   • Muscle pain (particularly in the back and knees)
   • Shivers
   • Loss of appetite
   • Nausea or vomiting
2. Toxic Phase (occurs in a small percentage of patients after the acute phase):
   • High fever
   • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
   • Abdominal pain and vomiting (sometimes with blood)
   • Bleeding from the nose, mouth, or eyes
   • Liver and kidney failure

The toxic phase can be fatal, with up to 50% of those who enter this stage not surviving. Therefore, prevention through vaccination is essential.

The Importance of the Yellow Fever Jab

The yellow fever jab is the most effective way to protect yourself against the disease. Here’s why getting vaccinated is crucial:

1. Highly Effective: The yellow fever vaccine is highly effective, providing immunity to 99% of those vaccinated within 30 days of the jab. It offers long-lasting protection, often for life.
2. Mandatory for Travel: Many countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination for entry, especially if you are coming from or have travelled through an area where yellow fever is endemic. This proof is documented in an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), commonly known as the “yellow card.”
3. Preventing Outbreaks: Vaccinating travellers helps prevent the spread of yellow fever to new areas, reducing the risk of outbreaks in non-endemic regions.
4. Protecting Public Health: By getting vaccinated, you contribute to broader public health efforts to control and eradicate yellow fever. This is particularly important in maintaining herd immunity and protecting those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.

Who Should Get the Yellow Fever Jab?

The yellow fever jab is recommended for:

• Travellers aged 9 months or older visiting or living in areas where yellow fever is endemic.
• Travellers passing through countries that require proof of yellow fever vaccination for entry.

Certain individuals, such as those with severe allergies to any component of the vaccine or those with compromised immune systems, should consult with a healthcare provider before getting vaccinated.

Preparing for Your Yellow Fever Jab

Getting your yellow fever jab at Shivas Pharmacy is a straightforward process. Here’s what you need to do:

1. 1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact Shivas Pharmacy to schedule an appointment for your yellow fever vaccination. It’s best to get vaccinated at least 10 days before your trip to ensure adequate immunity.
   2. Consultation: During your appointment, our healthcare professional will review your travel plans, medical history, and any potential contraindications to the vaccine. This consultation ensures that the yellow fever jab is safe and appropriate for you.
   3. Vaccination: The yellow fever jab is administered as a single injection, usually in the upper arm. Our trained staff will provide the vaccination and monitor you for any immediate reactions.
   4. Certification: After receiving the vaccine, you will be issued an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP). You must carry with you when travelling. This certificate is valid for life.

Travel Health Tips from Shivas Pharmacy

In addition to getting the yellow fever jab, here are some other travel health tips to keep in mind:

• Mosquito Protection: Use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and trousers, and sleep under mosquito nets to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
• Stay Informed: Keep up to date with travel advisories and health recommendations for your destination.
• Carry a First Aid Kit: Pack a travel first aid kit with essential medications and supplies.
• Stay Hydrated and Eat Safely: Drink bottled or purified water and be cautious with food to avoid gastrointestinal illnesses.

Get Booked in Today

At Shivas Pharmacy, we are dedicated to helping you stay healthy and safe during your travels. The yellow fever jab is a crucial component of your travel health preparations if you’re heading to regions where yellow fever is a risk. By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself but also contribute to global efforts to control and eradicate this serious disease.

If you’re planning a trip to a yellow fever endemic area, don’t delay – schedule your yellow fever jab at Shivas Pharmacy today. Our experienced team is here to provide the necessary vaccinations, advice, and support to ensure your journey is as safe and enjoyable as possible. For more information or to book your appointment, contact us today.

Safe travels!
This blog was written on behalf of Shivas Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.