Yellow fever areas

Yellow fever transmission occurs in parts of tropical and subtropical Africa and South America. Risk is not identical across a country: it can vary by region, season, altitude, whether you will be outdoors, and the type of travel you are doing. A city-only itinerary may differ from travel into forested or rural locations.

Country entry rules may ask some travellers to show yellow fever vaccination documentation based on where they have been, including transit through another country. Those rules are distinct from the medical question of mosquito exposure at your destination.

Take the complete itinerary to a travel-health appointment: destinations, stopovers, accommodation, planned outdoor activities and travel dates. Ask specifically about yellow fever exposure and any documentation rules that could apply. Bring evidence of past vaccination if you have it.

Use layered mosquito protection while travelling. Repellent, clothing that covers skin, and accommodation that limits mosquito entry can reduce bites. Review your plans again if the route changes after your appointment.

Fever during travel in a yellow fever area, or after returning, deserves prompt medical assessment. Seek urgent care for fever with yellow eyes or skin, severe headache, confusion, bleeding, persistent vomiting, or profound weakness. Tell the treating team where you travelled and the dates of travel.

Ask which parts of your route are considered exposure areas, whether vaccination is suitable for you, and what documents to carry. Ask for practical advice on insect repellent, clothing, and what to do if you develop a fever away from home.