Which Countries Require a Yellow Fever Certificate?

Planning your next big adventure abroad? If you’re travelling to certain parts of Africa or South America, there’s one vital detail you shouldn’t overlook: Yellow Fever vaccination. Many countries either require proof of vaccination for entry or recommend it based on regional risk — and without it, you could be turned away at the border or quarantined upon arrival.

At Bourne End Pharmacy, we’re a registered travel clinic and Yellow Fever vaccination centre, offering expert advice, same-week appointments, and official documentation to keep your travels safe and hassle-free. In this blog, we’ll explain what the yellow fever certificate is, which countries require it, and how you can arrange your appointment with ease.

What Is Yellow Fever and Why Is the Vaccine Important?

Yellow Fever is a serious viral infection transmitted by infected mosquitoes. It occurs mostly in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, Central America, and South America. The symptoms can range from mild flu-like illness to severe liver disease, bleeding, and even death. There’s no specific cure — only prevention.

The Yellow Fever vaccine is a highly effective, single-dose jab that provides lifelong protection in most people. Many countries require travellers to have this vaccine to prevent outbreaks and protect public health.

What Is the Yellow Fever Certificate (ICVP)?

Once you’ve had the vaccine, you’ll receive an official document called the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP). This yellow certificate is internationally recognised proof that you’ve been vaccinated against Yellow Fever.

Here’s what you need to know:

• It becomes valid 10 days after your vaccination.

• It is usually valid for life (for most individuals).

• It must be presented at immigration when entering certain countries or when transiting through a Yellow Fever risk zone.

At Bourne End Pharmacy, we issue your ICVP immediately after your vaccination. It’s signed and stamped by our authorised pharmacist and should be kept safe with your travel documents.

Countries That Require a Yellow Fever Certificate

Many countries require a Yellow Fever certificate either as a condition of entry or if you’re arriving from a country where Yellow Fever is endemic.

Countries That Require a Certificate for All Travellers (Regardless of Route):

• Angola

• Democratic Republic of Congo

• Ghana

• Uganda

• French Guiana

Countries That Require a Certificate If You’ve Travelled Through an Affected Area:

• Kenya

• Tanzania

• Rwanda

• Nigeria

• Ethiopia

• South Africa

• Zambia

• Bolivia

• Brazil

• Colombia

• Ecuador (including Galápagos Islands)

• Panama

• Suriname

• Paraguay

• Venezuela

This list is not exhaustive, and entry requirements can change. Always check Fit for Travel or Gov.uk Foreign Travel Advice before you fly.

Even if the vaccine isn’t mandatory, it may still be strongly recommended based on your travel route, activities, and exposure to mosquito bites.

Do Children Need the Yellow Fever Vaccine?

The vaccine can be given to children over 9 months of age. However, the risk vs benefit is considered carefully in very young children or those with immune conditions. If you’re travelling with a family, we can assess each member’s suitability during your consultation.

Who Should Not Receive the Yellow Fever Vaccine?

The vaccine is live, so it isn’t suitable for:

• People with severe egg allergies

• Individuals with weakened immune systems

• Infants under 6 months

• Pregnant women (except when absolutely necessary)

• Adults over 60 (risk-based assessment)

In these cases, we can provide a medical exemption certificate where appropriate, but this may not always be accepted by the destination country.

Where Can I Get the Yellow Fever Vaccine Near Me?

If you’re searching for the yellow fever vaccine near me, look no further than Bourne End Pharmacy. As a certified Yellow Fever Centre, we provide:

• Consultation and suitability screening

• Vaccination by trained professionals

• Immediate issue of the ICVP (Yellow Certificate)

• Advice on other essential travel vaccines and malaria prevention

We recommend booking your appointment at least 2 weeks before travel, as the vaccine takes 10 days to become effective and valid for entry.

Book Your Yellow Fever Vaccine at Bourne End Pharmacy

Don’t risk delays, entry refusal, or illness abroad. If you’re visiting a Yellow Fever zone — or even transiting through one — it’s essential to plan ahead. Whether you’re trekking in Peru, going on safari in Kenya, or sailing down the Amazon, we’ve got you covered.

Reach out to us or visit Bourne End Pharmacy today to schedule your Yellow Fever consultation and get your official vaccination certificate. Safe travels start here.

This blog was written on behalf of Bourne End Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.