Yellow fever

The yellow fever (YF) virus is considered to be one of the most deadly viral diseases in the world. It is seen in tropical parts of Africa and South America. In the local populations of countries where YF exists, there are about 200,000 cases of YF every year, with 30,000 deaths.

Although there are ongoing cases and outbreaks of YF in Africa and South America, the disease can be prevented by vaccination and is a very rare cause of illness in travellers.  In recent years, there have been six recorded deaths from YF in travellers who were not vaccinated.

This leaflet explains the risks and offers advice on how to avoid them.