Is yellow fever vaccine inactivated?

A live attenuated vaccine contains a weakened form of the virus that trains the immune system to recognise it. This differs from an inactivated vaccine, which uses virus that has been killed. The difference is especially relevant for people whose immune systems may not respond normally or who could be at greater risk from a live vaccine.

The decision is not based on travel alone. Your clinician weighs the destination and route, your age and health history, current medicines, prior vaccine reactions, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and whether an official travel certificate is required.

Tell the travel clinic about immune-suppressing medicines, cancer treatment, a transplant, HIV, thymus conditions or surgery, and allergies. Also provide your full itinerary and departure date. Do not stop prescribed medicine or change treatment on your own in order to receive a travel vaccine.

If the vaccine is not suitable, the clinician can explain the implications for your journey, mosquito precautions, and whether any travel documentation discussion is needed. Keep copies of relevant medical and vaccination records for travel.

After vaccination, seek emergency medical care for breathing problems, throat or facial swelling, collapse, or a widespread hives-like rash. Contact a clinician promptly for severe or worsening headache, confusion, weakness, persistent vomiting, jaundice, or fever that is becoming more severe. When attending care, say that you received a live yellow fever vaccine and give the date it was administered.

Ask whether any of your medicines or medical conditions affect the use of a live vaccine. Ask what alternatives or precautions apply if it is unsuitable, whether your route has an entry rule, and how to reduce mosquito bites during the trip.