Yellow fever has been making the headlines in recent years because of outbreaks in Africa. The disease is thought to have first emerged 3,000 years ago in Africa and was spread across the globe by sea through trade and travel. Thanks to the effective yellow fever vaccine it’s not as widespread as it once was, however, this reduction in cases has led to several misconceptions about the disease.
Yellow Fever Myths and Misconceptions
#1: You Can Only Get Yellow Fever from Mosquito Bites: While the disease is spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes, it can also be transmitted from person to person. It’s a rarer form of transmission, but yellow fever can be contracted by coming into contact with the blood or bodily fluids of someone who is infected. You should take extra precautions if you are around someone who has yellow fever.
#2: Yellow Fever is Only a Problem in Africa: A large percentage of cases occur each year in Africa, but it can be found in regions of South America and Asia. Before travelling to Africa, Asia, or South America, check if it’s an area affected by yellow fever so you can take appropriate measures to protect yourself.
#3: Yellow Fever Isn’t a Serious Disease Anymore: Medical advancements have come a long way since yellow fever was first detected, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t still a serious illness. Even otherwise healthy people can experience severe symptoms if the infection reaches the toxic phase.
If yellow fever progresses to the toxic phase, patients may suffer delirium, hallucinations, liver failure, kidney failure, or even death. Those who survive this stage of the infection can take weeks or months to recover and may end up with lasting damage to their organs.
Yellow Fever Clinic in Northolt and Sydenham
Anyone travelling to a high-risk area should book an appointment to get vaccinated. Those most at risk of yellow fever complications are infants and babies, children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with a compromised immune system. If you belong to any of these groups, then it is essential to get vaccinated.
Touchwood Pharmacy has several conveniently located yellow fever travel clinics where you can get the yellow fever vaccination in Northolt and Bromley. We also offer fast and effective yellow fever vaccination in Camberley.
Book your appointment online or contact us for more information.
Meta: Before you travel abroad, book your yellow fever vaccination in Northolt and Bromley at one of Touchwood Pharmacy’s friendly and convenient yellow fever clinics.
