In its mild form, a person would suffer from fever, headaches and muscle aches. In its severe form, a person would suffer from fever, hepatitis, kidney failure, hemorrhaging and heart failure. The disease is present in tropical regions of Central and South America and Africa. It does not occur in Asia. However, vaccination is required for travelers from Africa to Asia.
Yellow fever is contracted when the virus is transmitted by mosquito bites.
Symptoms occur 3-6 days after the bite from an infected mosquito. The vaccine is one of the safest vaccines available and provides effective, long-lasting immunity. The vaccine will give protection for 10 years, beginning 10 days after vaccination. Vaccination is also recommended for laboratory personnel who might be exposed to virulent yellow fever virus. Infants under 9 months of age and pregnant women should be considered for vaccination if they must travel in a high-risk area and a high level of protection from mosquito exposure is not possible.