Yellow Fever Vaccination

Whether you’re planning a trip to Africa or South America, getting vaccinated against yellow fever is often a necessary step before you board your flight. Yellow fever is a serious viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, and many countries require proof of vaccination for entry. If you’re in Dubai and looking to get your yellow fever vaccine, this guide covers everything you need to know—from vaccination centers to eligibility, appointments, and travel-related requirements.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Dubai

Dubai is well-equipped with certified health centers that provide the yellow fever vaccine. These centers are approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) to issue the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), commonly known as the “yellow card.”

Here are some of the major centers where you can get vaccinated:

• Dubai Health Authority Clinics – Government-run clinics such as Al Barsha Health Center, Al Twar, and Al Mizhar offer yellow fever vaccines with prior booking.

• Airports Medical Centers – Some travelers prefer Dubai International Airport’s health clinics for convenience and extended hours.

Always call ahead or visit the clinic’s website to confirm availability, as yellow fever vaccines may be administered on select days.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Appointment

Making an appointment for the yellow fever vaccine in Dubai is straightforward but essential—walk-in vaccinations are generally not allowed due to vaccine storage and preparation protocols.

Here’s how to schedule your vaccination:

1. Choose a certified center from the DHA list or a reputed hospital/clinic.

2. Call or use the online portal (like DHA’s online booking system or the hospital’s website) to fix an appointment.

3. Bring identification and your vaccination records if available, especially if you’ve had prior immunizations.

4. Arrive early and allow time for observation post-vaccination (usually 15–30 minutes).

Note: Some clinics may require a doctor’s consultation before the vaccine is administered, especially for people with chronic illnesses or those on medication.

Countries That Require Yellow Fever Vaccination

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into certain countries, especially in parts of Africa and South America where the disease is endemic. Additionally, many countries require travelers arriving from yellow fever-endemic areas to present proof of vaccination—even if yellow fever is not present in the destination country itself.

Here are some regions where yellow fever vaccination is required:

Africa

• Nigeria

• Ghana

• Kenya

• Uganda

• Angola

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

• Cameroon

South America

• Brazil

• Colombia

• Peru

• Bolivia

• Venezuela

Asia & Middle East (Requirement based on travel history)

• India, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and China require yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from an endemic country.

You’ll typically need to show your yellow card (ICVP) upon arrival, or you may be denied entry or quarantined. The vaccine is valid for life, though some countries still ask for documentation within the last 10 years as an additional precaution.

Can I Drink Alcohol Before Yellow Fever Vaccination?

While there is no strict medical prohibition against consuming alcohol before receiving the yellow fever vaccine, it’s generally recommended to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before and after your vaccination.

Why?

• Alcohol can affect your immune response and may interfere with how your body responds to the vaccine.

• It can also increase the risk of side effects like headache, dizziness, or nausea—some of which are already mild side effects of the vaccine.

• If you’re on any medication (especially antibiotics or antivirals), mixing alcohol may complicate things further.

So, it’s best to play it safe. Hold off on the drinks until your body has had a chance to respond fully to the vaccine.

Does Dubai Require Yellow Fever Vaccination?

Dubai itself does not require yellow fever vaccination for residents or tourists coming from non-endemic countries. However, if you’re arriving in Dubai from a country where yellow fever is present, you will need to present proof of vaccination at immigration.

This includes countries in Africa, parts of South America, and even some Caribbean nations. If you don’t have a valid vaccination certificate, you could be quarantined or denied entry.

Also, if you’re a Dubai resident traveling to a yellow fever-risk country, you must be vaccinated and carry your yellow card for re-entry into the UAE and to avoid issues at your destination.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Age Limit

The yellow fever vaccine is generally safe and effective, but age limits and medical conditions play a role in determining who can receive it.

• Infants under 9 months should not receive the vaccine, as it can cause serious side effects in very young children.

• People aged 60 and above should only receive the vaccine after a thorough risk assessment, due to a slightly increased risk of adverse reactions.

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women are typically advised against getting vaccinated unless travel is unavoidable.

• Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or taking immunosuppressive drugs, may also be advised not to take the vaccine.

Always consult your doctor if you fall into any of these categories. In some cases, a medical waiver may be issued in place of vaccination. Visit Northwest Clinic

Frequently Ask Questions

Q. When is yellow fever vaccine recommended?

A. The yellow fever vaccine is recommended for travelers visiting or transiting through countries where yellow fever is endemic. It’s also advised for people living in high-risk areas. One dose provides lifelong protection and is usually required at least 10 days before travel.

Q. What countries do you need yellow fever vaccines in?

A. You need the yellow fever vaccine for travel to parts of Africa and South America, such as Ghana, Nigeria, Brazil, and Peru. Some countries also require proof if you’re arriving from a yellow fever zone. Always check specific entry requirements before travel.

Q. How long does the yellow fever vaccine last?

A. A single dose of the yellow fever vaccine provides lifelong protection for most people. Booster doses are no longer routinely recommended. However, some countries still require proof of a recent dose within 10 years.

Q. Which countries are yellow fever risks in?

A. Yellow fever risk is highest in sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America, including countries like Angola, Uganda, Brazil, and Colombia. These areas have active mosquito transmission and require vaccination for entry or travel.

Q. Which vaccines last a lifetime?

A. Vaccines that usually last a lifetime include yellow fever, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), and hepatitis B (after full series). Duration may vary by individual health and immunity. Some vaccines may require boosters based on age or exposure risk.

Q. What is the most successful vaccine?

A. The smallpox vaccine is considered the most successful in history, leading to the global eradication of the disease. Other highly effective vaccines include those for measles, polio, and hepatitis B, saving millions of lives each year.