Yellow Fever Vaccine Side Effects

Yellow Fever Vaccine Side Effects

What are the side effects of the yellow fever vaccine?

The yellow fever vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine, which means that it contains a weakened form of the yellow fever virus. This allows the body to develop immunity to the virus without causing the disease. However, some people may experience side effects from the vaccine, which can range from mild to serious.

The most common side effects of the yellow fever vaccine include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Rash

These side effects usually occur within 5 to 10 days after vaccination and typically resolve within a few days.

What are the serious side effects of the yellow fever vaccine?

In rare cases, the yellow fever vaccine can cause serious side effects, including:

• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
• Meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord)
• Guillain-Barré syndrome (a neurological disorder that affects the nerves)
• Death

The risk of these serious side effects is very low, but it is important to be aware of them before getting vaccinated.

Who should not get the yellow fever vaccine?

The yellow fever vaccine is not recommended for everyone. People who should not get the vaccine include:

• People who are allergic to the vaccine
• People who have a weakened immune system
• People who are pregnant or breastfeeding
• People who have recently had a blood transfusion
• People who are taking certain medications, such as steroids or chemotherapy drugs

If you have any of these conditions, talk to your doctor before getting the yellow fever vaccine.

What should I do if I experience side effects from the yellow fever vaccine?

If you experience any side effects from the yellow fever vaccine, it is important to see your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine if the side effects are serious and recommend treatment if necessary.

In most cases, the side effects of the yellow fever vaccine are mild and will resolve within a few days. However, it is important to be aware of the potential for serious side effects and to seek medical attention if you experience any of them.