|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Yellow fever is a serious viral infection, transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical regions. It has both an urban cycle and a jungle cycle that relies on monkeys as carriers ('sylvatic cycle').
|
|
In mild cases the symptoms are similar to influenza, but serious cases develop a high temperature and may have a series of after effects, such as internal bleeding, kidney failure and meningitis. A classic feature of yellow fever is hepatitis, which is the reason for the yellow colouring of the skin (jaundice) and the name of the disease. |
|
 |
|
The disease is covered by the International Quarantine Regulations, which are taken very seriously by authorities everywhere. Therefore, the vaccine has to be administered by a specially authorised doctor.
In the UK you can only obtain the yellow fever vaccination from a designated Yellow Fever Centre. Charles Street Surgery has been a designated centre since 1996.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
What causes yellow fever?
|
|
Yellow fever virus belongs to the Flaviviridae family, other members of which cause dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis.
The virus is introduced into the bloodstream via the saliva of the mosquito as it bites. These mosquitoes are active during the day & bite from dawn to dusk!
The virus can then be transported around the body and reproduce itself in a variety of the body's cells, usually the liver, kidneys and blood vessels. In serious cases, these cells may become damaged themselves.
[ Top ]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Various systems in the body are affected during this phase. Anaemia (lack of red blood cells) develops as well as liver inflammation, hepatitis and jaundice.
The kidneys are also affected and bleeding from the mouth, nose and stomach may occur, which leads to blood in vomit and faeces.
The majority of patients who experience bleeding die in a short space of time.
[ Top ]
|
|
|
What can you do yourself? |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
There is a vaccine, which is very effective against yellow fever. It protects you from 10 days after the vaccination, which is administered in a single injection. Current advice is to have it repeated every 10 years.
It is recommended for all areas where the disease occurs.
[ Top ]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Requirement for Yellow Fever Vaccination |
|
In some countries where there are mosquitoes that could transmit the virus, actual documentation is required, stating that you have been vaccinated against yellow fever before you can obtain permission to enter the country. This can be provided by a stamp in the yellow international vaccination card issued by a WHO recognised vaccination centre.
To be on the safe side, it has been agreed internationally that the vaccination provides protection for 10 years. After that you have to be vaccinated again, even though the first vaccination may still be effective for a little while longer.
[ Top ]
|
|
|
How do I arrange for the Vaccination? |
|
|
At Charles Street Surgery, all patients will need to obtain a Yellow Fever Travel Risk Assessment form by either downloading it on-line, or by collecting the relevant form, from the Surgery. The completed questionnaire needs to be returned to the surgery prior to appointment.
The vaccine must be paid for prior to appointment & patients should try to attend at least 4 weeks before intending to travel. Check Current Fee
Following vaccination you will be issued your certificate, which will remain valid for a period of 10 years.
The Yellow Fever Travel Risk Assessment form is available in both Word and PDF format (see below).
[ Top ] [ Word ] [ PDF ]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
We always recommend that you photocopy your certificate, in case of problems (Certificates can be re-issued with photocopy).
If your name changes, then certificate also needs to be amended.
You will not be able to donate blood for 4 weeks after vaccination.
[ Top ]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
