Yellow Fever Vaccine – Expert Protection from Corbett Pharmacy Droitwich Travel Clinic

Introduction: Why Yellow Fever Matters for Travellers

As Chief Pharmacist and Travel Clinic Lead at Corbett Pharmacy in Droitwich, I often see patients who are planning exciting trips to Africa or South America. One of the most common questions I get is: “Do I need the Yellow Fever vaccine?”

The answer is usually yes – not only for your health, but also because many countries require proof of vaccination before they let you enter.

That’s where we come in. At Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic, we are a registered Yellow Fever vaccination centre, which means we can safely administer the vaccine and provide the official International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) that you’ll need at border control.

➡️ Ready to book now? Book your Yellow Fever appointment today

What is Yellow Fever?

Yellow Fever is a serious viral disease spread by infected mosquitoes, mainly the Aedes aegypti species. It gets its name from the jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) that some patients develop.

The illness can range from mild symptoms to severe, life-threatening disease.

Symptoms of Yellow Fever include:

• Fever and chills

• Severe headache

• Nausea and vomiting

• Muscle and back pain

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

• In severe cases: bleeding, organ failure, and even death

Unlike some other mosquito-borne illnesses such as Chikungunya or Dengue, Yellow Fever can be fatal – which makes vaccination essential for travellers.

For NHS guidance, you can also check: Yellow Fever – NHS

Where is Yellow Fever Found?

Yellow Fever is mainly found in sub-Saharan Africa and South America. If you’re travelling to or even transiting through these areas, you may be required to show proof of vaccination.

Regions where Yellow Fever risk is high:

• Africa – Countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, and more

• South America – Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, and surrounding regions

Some countries that aren’t high risk still require proof of vaccination if you’re entering from a Yellow Fever area. This is especially important for travellers taking multi-stop journeys.

➡️ Unsure if your destination requires it? Book a consultation with us and I’ll check your itinerary: Book Your Appointment

How Does the Yellow Fever Vaccine Work?

The Yellow Fever vaccine is a highly effective, live, single-dose vaccine that provides long-lasting, often lifelong, protection.

Key facts about the Yellow Fever vaccine:

• Single injection – usually into the upper arm

• Protection develops within 10 days

• Certificate issued – valid for life in most cases

• Safe for most adults and children over 9 months

• Not suitable for some groups (see below)

➡️ Learn more here: Yellow Fever Vaccine – Droitwich Travel Clinic

Who Should and Shouldn’t Get the Yellow Fever Vaccine?

As with all vaccines, I’ll review your medical history before giving you the Yellow Fever jab.

You should get the vaccine if:

• You’re travelling to or transiting through high-risk Yellow Fever countries

• You’re planning long-term stays in Africa or South America

• You’re attending outdoor activities such as safaris, trekking, or volunteering abroad

You should not get the vaccine if:

• You are under 9 months of age

• You are pregnant (unless travel risk is unavoidable)

• You have a weakened immune system (e.g., due to chemotherapy, HIV, or certain medications)

• You have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous Yellow Fever vaccine or an ingredient such as eggs

If you fall into one of these categories, I’ll issue a medical exemption certificate where appropriate, which can be accepted by some border officials.

Yellow Fever Certificate (ICVP)

One of the most important aspects of the Yellow Fever vaccine is the official certificate you receive.

• It’s called the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP)

• It becomes valid 10 days after vaccination

• It’s usually valid for life, though some countries may request a recent certificate

• You must carry it with your passport when travelling

Without this document, you can be refused entry at the border or even quarantined.

➡️ At Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic, we provide this certificate on the same day as your vaccination.

Yellow Fever Vaccine Side Effects

Most people tolerate the Yellow Fever vaccine well, but as with all vaccines, some side effects can occur.

Common mild side effects:

• Soreness at the injection site

• Mild fever

• Headache or tiredness

Rare but serious side effects:

• Allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)

• Neurological reactions in very rare cases

This is why I always carry out a thorough pre-vaccination assessment to ensure the vaccine is safe for you.

Other Vaccines to Consider Alongside Yellow Fever

Because Yellow Fever risk areas often overlap with regions where other diseases are common, I usually recommend combining this vaccine with others:

• Cholera – for parts of Africa with poor sanitation

• Typhoid – common in both Africa and South America

• Hepatitis A – almost always advised for travel to developing regions

• Rabies – especially for those in rural areas or in close contact with animals

• Chikungunya – another mosquito-borne illness seen in Africa and Asia

➡️ Book your travel health consultation today and I’ll design a personalised vaccination plan for your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions – Yellow Fever Vaccine

1. Do all African countries require the Yellow Fever vaccine?
No – but many do, and some require it if you’re entering from a risk country. I’ll check your exact itinerary.

2. Is one Yellow Fever vaccine enough for life?
In most cases, yes – a single dose gives lifelong protection.

3. Can children get the Yellow Fever vaccine?
Yes, from 9 months old. It’s not recommended for younger babies.

4. How soon before travel should I get the vaccine?
At least 10 days before travel, so your certificate is valid when you depart.

5. Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?
Yes – please bring your passport, as the details go on your Yellow Fever certificate.

6. Can I get the Yellow Fever vaccine on the NHS?
No – this vaccine is only available privately through registered Yellow Fever vaccination centres like ours.

7. What happens if I can’t have the vaccine for medical reasons?
I can provide a medical exemption certificate, which may be accepted by some countries.

Why Choose Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic?

As a registered Yellow Fever centre, Corbett Pharmacy is trusted by patients across Droitwich, Worcester, and Worcestershire. Here’s why:

• Expert advice from me, Aran Bassi – Chief Pharmacist

• Official Yellow Fever certificates issued on the spot

• All major vaccines available in one visit

• Flexible appointments – we work around your schedule

➡️ Don’t risk being turned away at the border – book your Yellow Fever vaccine now

Conclusion: Travel Safely with Confidence

The Yellow Fever vaccine is more than just a health precaution – it’s often your ticket to enter certain countries. At Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic, we’ll make sure you’re protected, certified, and ready for your trip.

➡️ Book your Yellow Fever vaccine appointment today

Written by:
Aran Bassi
Chief Pharmacist & Travel Clinic Lead
Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic
36 Corbett Avenue, Droitwich, WR9 7BE
📞 01905 795618