Yellow fever risk areas

Yellow fever occurs in parts of Africa and South America. Risk can differ within a country, including between cities, rural areas, forests, and border regions. Entry rules can also differ from health risk: a destination may request proof of vaccination because of a previous stop on your itinerary, even when your final destination has no local transmission.

A travel clinic can review every country and transit stop, the season, planned activities, and your health history. This is especially useful for trips involving outdoor work, camping, or travel away from major urban centres.

Arrange a travel-health appointment well before departure. Bring your route, dates, previous vaccination records, and details of pregnancy, immune-system conditions, severe allergies, or medicines that affect immunity. Use clothing that covers skin, insect repellent, and screened or air-conditioned accommodation to reduce mosquito bites.

Check the dedicated Yellow Fever Vaccination information for preparation and eligibility.

Seek urgent medical assessment during or after travel if fever develops with severe headache, repeated vomiting, yellowing of the eyes or skin, unusual bleeding, marked weakness, confusion, or trouble breathing. Tell the clinician exactly where you travelled and when mosquito exposure may have occurred.

Ask whether your itinerary creates a vaccination recommendation or an entry-document requirement, whether the vaccine is suitable for you, and which bite-prevention measures fit your accommodation and activities.