Yellow fever vaccine: long-term side effects

Soreness where the injection was given, a mild fever, headache, tiredness or body aches can occur after vaccination. A symptom that continues, returns after it had settled, or interferes with normal activity should be discussed with a clinician rather than being assumed to be from the vaccine.

Timing can help a clinician investigate, but it cannot establish the cause by itself. Other infections, medicines and underlying conditions can produce similar symptoms. Keep a clear note of when the symptom began, how it has changed and any treatments you have taken.

Keep your vaccination documentation and the product name. If you have ongoing symptoms, arrange a clinical review and bring this information, together with a list of medicines and supplements. Do not delay assessment of a concerning symptom while waiting to see whether it disappears.

Before a future travel vaccination, share details of any reaction with the clinician. They can consider your medical history and explain the relevant precautions. Yellow Fever Vaccination information can help you prepare for that conversation.

Get urgent medical help for breathing difficulty, facial or throat swelling, collapse, a seizure, confusion, severe headache with neck stiffness, new weakness, trouble walking, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. These symptoms need prompt assessment whether or not they followed a vaccination.

Ask whether the pattern of your symptoms needs examination or tests, what other causes should be considered, and which warning signs should prompt urgent care. Also ask how any suspected reaction should be recorded before you make future travel plans.