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Uganda attracts many tourists because of its stunning natural beauty including the opportunity to see mountain gorillas. Whether you are visiting Uganda for a wildlife adventure or to visit friends and family, it’s important to be protected against travel illnesses including yellow fever disease.
Is Yellow Fever a Concern in Uganda?
According to the World Health Organization, Uganda is considered a high risk country for yellow fever illness. Because the mosquito species that carries yellow fever disease is found throughout the country, infections occur in both rural and urban areas, including Kampala. Once infected with yellow fever virus, severe life-threatening illness and death can occur. All international visitors to Uganda need the yellow fever vaccine before arriving.
Is Yellow Fever Vaccine Required for Uganda?
In short, yes, the yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers 1 year and older entering Uganda. This requirement applies to both foreign visitors and Ugandan citizens. For most people, a single dose of yellow fever is adequate for lifetime protection.
How Do I Show Proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination?
Everyone entering Uganda must present the official yellow fever vaccination certificate, commonly called the “yellow card.” This internally recognized document is also known by the official name; the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP). A generic vaccine record does not meet international standards for proof of vaccination against yellow fever.
Where Can I Find the Yellow Fever Vaccine?
In the United States, only CDC approved Yellow Fever Vaccination Sites like Destination Health Clinic can administer the yellow fever vaccination and provide the official ICVP (yellow card) document. Most doctor offices and pharmacies are not authorized to provide the yellow fever vaccine. Instead, many travelers find it easiest to visit a travel clinic like Destination Health Clinic. Because we specialize in vaccines, the yellow fever vaccine is always available at any of our three Massachusetts offices. The yellow fever vaccine should be given at least 10 days before arrival to Uganda.
Visit Destination Health Clinic Before Your Trip to Uganda
In addition to the yellow fever vaccination, our friendly staff will share information with you about other recommended vaccines for travel to Uganda like typhoid fever and hepatitis A. Additionally, malaria is a concern in Uganda and malaria tablets are recommended for all travelers. It’s best to receive your vaccines several weeks to months before your departure dates, so we invite you to book your appointment at Destination Health Clinic today.
