Dr Sajid Siddiqi
Dr Robyn White
Dr Uthpala Senaviratne
Jordan Turany
MohammedYellow fever vaccination is required for entry to a number of countries in sub-Saharan Africa and South America, and by Australia and other countries for travellers arriving from those regions, and it can only be given at a centre approved by the state health department. East Hills Medical Centre is an approved Yellow Fever vaccination centre in East Hills, south-west Sydney. A single dose provides lifelong protection for most travellers, and the International Certificate of Vaccination becomes valid ten days after the dose, so the vaccine should be given at least two weeks before departure. The consultation is $113.90 with a Medicare rebate of $45.05, plus the cost of the vaccine. The vaccine is not suitable for infants under nine months, people with weakened immune systems, or some travellers over 60, for whom the doctor can issue a medical exemption letter that most countries accept.
Where it is required
Countries that require proof of vaccination for entry include much of West and Central Africa and parts of South America such as Brazil, Bolivia and Peru for certain regions. Australia requires a certificate from travellers who have been in a yellow fever risk country in the six days before arrival. Requirements change; your doctor checks the current Smartraveller and WHO lists for your itinerary.
Timing
Book at least two to three weeks before you travel. The certificate is valid from the tenth day after vaccination and, under current WHO rules, for the life of the person vaccinated.
Who should not have it
- Infants under 9 months
- People with a weakened immune system, including from some medications
- People with a thymus disorder or previous severe reaction to egg
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women, unless the risk of infection is high
- Travellers aged 60 and over are assessed individually because of a higher rate of rare serious reactions
The consultation
The yellow fever visit doubles as a full travel consultation: other vaccines for your destinations, malaria prevention, food and water advice, and a travel medication kit. Bring your itinerary and vaccination history.
This guide is general information and does not replace a consultation. Fees and processes are the practice's own and are current at the published date.