Yellow Fever Vaccination in Uganda – Yellow fever is an incurable viral infection spread by infected Aedes and Haemagogus mosquitoes. It is also known as Yellow Jack, Yellow Plague, or Bronze John.
The disease is common in regions of Africa and South America.
Globally, there are about 200,000 cases of yellow fever and 30,000 related deaths reported each year.
Uganda is classified as one of the 27 countries in Africa at high risk for yellow fever outbreaks.
Stages of Yellow Fever
There are three main stages of yellow fever:
- Infection (Stage One)
- Remission (Stage Two)
- Intoxication (Stage Three)
Signs and Symptoms of Yellow Fever
- Headache
- Fever
- Nausea
- Yellowing of the eyes (jaundice)
- Decreased urination
- Delirium
- Irregular heartbeats
- Bleeding (may progress to hemorrhage)
- Muscle aches
- Vomiting, possibly of blood
- Yellowing of the skin
Treatment for Yellow Fever
There is no specific treatment for yellow fever. However, it can be effectively prevented through vaccination.
Steps Taken by Uganda to Prevent Yellow Fever
Uganda introduced yellow fever vaccines into routine immunization in October 2022 during integrated child health days.
The vaccine provides lifelong protection against yellow fever infection.
The vaccine is made freely available to all citizens aged 1-60 years.
Precautions
It is advisable to receive the yellow fever vaccine at least 28 days before conception to reduce the risk of post-vaccine viraemia, which may pose a risk to the developing fetus.
Assessed and Accredited Hospitals in Uganda That Administer Yellow Fever Vaccines
- Victoria Medical Center
- Norvic Hospital
- Kitante Medical Care
- KCCA Clinic (free of charge for individuals aged 1-60)
- Victoria Hospital in Entebbe
- Kazuri Medical Care
- Mengo Medical Hospital
- Nakasero Hospital
- Catherine Hospital
Yellow fever is a deadly disease, and both individuals entering and leaving Uganda are strictly required to be vaccinated and provide proof via their yellow fever vaccination cards.
This card is a crucial item for travelers at the airport.
