About the Yellow Fever Vaccine
When Should You Get the Yellow Fever Vaccine
We recommend receiving the yellow fever vaccine at least 10 days before travelling to countries where yellow fever is present or where proof of vaccination is required for entry. This allows sufficient time for immunity to develop and for the Yellow Fever certificate to become valid.
If you are travelling at short notice, please contact us as soon as possible so our clinicians can advise.
Vaccine Schedule
The yellow fever vaccine requires a single dose, which offers lifetime protection for most people. No additional doses are needed to complete the course.
Booster Requirements
A booster dose is not routinely required, as one vaccination usually provides lifelong protection.
In limited cases, such as certain medical conditions or vaccination at a very young age, a clinician may advise differently following assessment.
How the Yellow Fever Vaccine Is Given
The vaccine is administered as a single subcutaneous injection into the upper arm.
All vaccinations at London Vaccination Clinic are given by trained and experienced healthcare professionals at approved centres.
How Long Does the Yellow Fever Vaccine Last
For most people, the yellow fever vaccine provides lifelong immunity. International Health Regulations recognise a single dose as valid for life, and the certificate does not normally expire.
Possible Side Effects
Most people tolerate the yellow fever vaccine well. Mild and short-lived side effects may include:
-Soreness at the injection site
-Mild fever
-Headache
-Muscle aches or fatigue
Serious side effects are rare. Our clinicians will assess suitability before vaccination.
Children and the Yellow Fever Vaccine
The yellow fever vaccine is usually suitable from 9 months of age. Vaccination in younger children or infants may require specialist clinical assessment.
Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements
Some countries require travellers to present an official Yellow Fever certificate before entry or upon arrival.
The certificate is issued at the time of vaccination and is recognised internationally.
Risks of Yellow Fever Infection
In severe cases, yellow fever can lead to organ failure, internal bleeding, and can be life-threatening. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent infection and avoid travel disruption.
Our London Travel Clinics
We have four central London travel clinics in Liverpool Street, London Bridge, High Street Kensington, and Mayfair, convenient for anyone living or working in the city. We are open early mornings, lunchtimes, evenings, and weekends, providing all essential travel vaccinations and medications.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Yellow Fever Vaccine
No. Although both are spread by mosquitoes, they are different diseases. Malaria is caused by parasites and spread by the Anopheles mosquito, which bites between dusk and dawn, and is prevented using tablets and bite avoidance measures. Yellow fever is a viral infection spread by the Aedes mosquito, which bites during the daytime, and can be prevented through vaccination.
Several countries in Africa and South America require proof of yellow fever vaccination, depending on your destination and recent travel history. Our specialist nurses will help you identify whether you need the vaccination, whether a certificate is required, or whether you do not need either and may instead require a medical exemption for travel. As entry requirements can change, professional advice before travel is recommended.
You must receive the vaccine at least 10 days before travel for immunity to develop and for the certificate to become valid under international regulations.
The certificate is issued at the time of vaccination by an approved yellow fever centre. You must bring your passport to the appointment, as this is a legal requirement.
If your vaccination was given at London Vaccination Clinic, we can replace your certificate using evidence of your past vaccination. If documentation is not available, revaccination may be offered, which is harmless for the body. If you were vaccinated elsewhere, replacement availability depends on the original provider.
The yellow fever vaccine may not be suitable for infants under 9 months of age, people with weakened immune systems, severe egg allergy, thymus disorders, or certain neurological conditions. People aged over 60 years require a specific risk assessment, as additional precautions apply in this age group. A clinical assessment by our specialist nurses is always required.
Vaccination is generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless travel is unavoidable and the risk of infection is high. Our specialist nurses will carefully assess the risks and advise accordingly.
Yes. The yellow fever vaccine has been used for decades and is highly effective. Most people experience only mild side effects, and serious reactions are rare. Suitability is assessed by our specialist nurses before vaccination.
Yes. A single dose usually provides lifelong protection, and yellow fever certificates are now recognised internationally as valid for life.
No. Yellow fever vaccination is a private travel service and is only available at registered yellow fever vaccination centres.
Yes. You must bring your passport and details of your travel itinerary, as well as information about your medical history and current medications.
The vaccine is given in the upper arm, so short sleeves or loose clothing are recommended for easy access.
Yes. Using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves, and sleeping under mosquito nets all help reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
