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Why Do I Need a Yellow Fever Jab & Where Can I Get One?
As travel opens up again, we know that you may be looking to jet off to destinations such as the Caribbean or South America. When travelling to such places, it is important to get a yellow fever vaccine before you go. However, there is no need to worry – Doorstep Pharmacy is here to help. We are a yellow fever vaccination centre; we offer a yellow fever vaccine in Harrow, Middlesex to get you where you need to go safely.
What is Yellow fever?
Yellow fever is a virus that is spread through infected mosquito bites. In high-risk countries, said mosquitoes are found in rural areas, towns and cities; they mainly bite during the day.
What are the symptoms of yellow fever?
Yellow fever symptoms usually become apparent 3-6 days after infection.
It tends to manifest in the following ways:
– A loss of appetite
– Feeling generally unwell
– Backache and muscle pain
– Vomiting or feeling sick
– A headache
– A high temperature
– Eye sensitivity to light
– Jaundice
Up to 1 in 4 people also experience:
– Bleeding from the ears, nose, eyes or mouth
– Blood in poo or vomiting blood
You are advised to see a doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms whilst travelling to high-risk areas.
Why do I need to book a yellow fever vaccine in Harrow, Middlesex?
The vaccine is the most effective way for your body to develop adequate protection against yellow fever ahead of your trip. You will need a yellow fever vaccination if you are visiting destinations such as:
– Parts of South and Central America
– Trinidad in the Caribbean
– Parts of sub-Saharan Africa (the area below the Sahara desert)
Some countries require a yellow fever vaccination certificate upon entry. That is why it is vital that you check the travel information for your destination country in advance.
When do I need to get the vaccine?
You should get your vaccine at least 10 days before you are due to travel. This will allow sufficient time for the vaccine to work. It is important to note that if you or your child has had the MMR vaccine, you must wait at least 4 weeks before you have this one.
Once you have had the vaccination, it generally provides lifelong protection. However, it is recommended that you get a further dose if you were vaccinated when you were:
– Pregnant
– Living with HIV
– Had a weak immune system
– Under 2 years old
– About to have a bone marrow transplant
How can I prevent mosquito bites?
Aside from getting the vaccine, there are a variety of ways in which you can protect yourself against the mosquito bites themselves. These include ensuring that your clothes cover your arms and legs, as well as using mosquito nets. You should also use insect repellent that contains 30-50% DEET. You can find more information on insect bite prevention on the NHS website.
How can I get my yellow fever vaccine in Harrow, Middlesex?
If you are heading off on your travels, you can contact us to book in for your vaccine at your convenience. We can even offer walk-ins on the day if you call ahead.
Why wait to protect yourself?
Book your yellow fever vaccine today!
Book NowThis blog post was written on behalf of Doorstep Pharmacy by Carla Moore from Pharmacy Mentor.
