The risk for a traveler of acquiring yellow fever depends in part on the destination, season, outdoor activities while traveling, and the rate of transmission at the time of travel. For example, in West Africa, the most dangerous time of year is during the late rainy and early dry seasons (July to October), while virus transmission is highest during the rainy season (January to March) in Brazil.
Travelers should get vaccinated for yellow fever before visiting areas where yellow fever is found.
- In the United States, the vaccine is given only at designated yellow fever vaccination centers. Search for a vaccination center.
- International regulations require proof of yellow fever vaccination for travel to and from certain countries.
- People who get vaccinated should be given an International Certificate of Vaccination.
In addition to vaccination, travelers should be advised to take precautions against exposure to mosquitoes when traveling in areas with yellow fever transmission.
- Staying in well-screened quarters and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants will help to prevent mosquito bites.
- Insect repellents containing DEET should be used on exposed skin only.
- Permethrin-containing repellents should be applied to clothing.
- Travelers to rural areas should bring mosquito nets and aerosol insecticides or mosquito coils.