Summer is just around the corner which means many of us will be going on much needed holidays abroad. Depending on where you’ll be travelling, you may need to get certain vaccines to protect yourself against local diseases. Some vaccinations require multiple doses or need time to take effect, so you’ll need to plan your travel carefully if you want the highest levels of protection.
Those travelling to the Caribbean, sub-Saharan Africa, and South America should consider getting vaccinated against yellow fever. Yellow fever is a serious virus that can cause a wide range of symptoms including jaundice, the symptom that gives the virus its name. It’s spread through the bite of mosquitos and can be found in nearly 50 countries around the world, many of which are popular tropical destinations.
Can I Travel Immediately After the Yellow Fever Vaccine?
The yellow fever inoculation is a one-dose vaccine that should provide you with lifetime immunity against the virus. For you to be fully protected against yellow fever, you should wait at least 10 days before travelling after you’re vaccinated.
Unless you’re travelling somewhere that requires a fully completed yellow fever vaccine, you can travel before this but your immunity against yellow fever may not be as high.
Proof of vaccination is most often required for travellers journeying from or through countries with yellow fever. If you get your yellow fever vaccination in Sydenham or Ramsgate from Touchwood Pharmacy, we’ll provide you with a yellow fever vaccine certificate to prove you’ve been fully vaccinated.
Preventing Mosquito Bites
Even if you’re fully vaccinated against yellow fever, you should take precautions against mosquito bites.
- Wear closed toe shoes and loose-fitting clothes that fully cover your arms and legs.
- Use insect repellent that contains at least a 50% concentration of DEET. Use it on any exposed skin as well as on your clothes.
- Sleep under mosquito nets that have been treated with mosquito repellent.
- Check your doors and windows have fully intact mosquito screens.
- Be extra mindful around standing water and after the sun goes down.
Make sure your holiday goes smoothly by booking in for yellow fever vaccination in Walsall and Streatham from Touchwood Pharmacy. Convenient appointments are also available for yellow fever vaccination at our Northolt location.
Click here to book an appointment with us.
