Four people have died from the mosquito-borne disease and ten others affected in several parts of Brazil.

All reports are centred around the major cities which has initiated a Level 2 alert.

Level 2 alerts mean extra precautions should be taken before entering infected areas.

UK travellers are urged to get vaccinated 8 weeks before travelling to Brazil.

So far Yellow fever has been reported in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Minas Gerais.

For those who have already travelled to these areas unprotected, the symptoms to look out for include – fatigue, fever, chills, aching, pain in the joints (especially knees and back), abdomen pain and loss of appetite.

In more severe cases – yellowing of the skin, redness of the eyes, delirium, vomiting, head and eye ache. 20-50 percent of cases can be fatal so it is very important you seek medical attention if you feel you are experiencing any of the severe symptoms.

It is also very important that Yellow fever is reported by contacting your local GP. A simple blood test can be performed to confirm diagnosis.

Recovery normally takes 3 – 4 days. Although there is no cure for Yellow fever minor symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter pain relief such as Paracetamol and Ibuprofen.

More about Yellow fever

Yellow fever is a tropical virus found in areas such as South America, Central America, Africa, and the Caribbean.

It affects the liver which causes symptoms such as yellowing of the eyes, skin and fevers. Hence the name “Yellow Fever”.

It is spread from person to person by mosquitoes.

Vaccination is highly recommended, along with other precautions such as mosquito nets and insect repellent. It is also advisable not to travel to areas which have outbreaks.

Vaccinations

The vaccination takes ten days after administration before it becomes effective. This means you must have your vaccination 10 days before travel.

Leaving your vaccine too late could result in not being allowed to enter the country you are destined for. It also means you will not be fully covered for Yellow fever.

The Yellow fever vaccine lasts up to ten years, however it is always best to seek advice before travelling even if you feel you are covered against any diseases active in the country you are visiting.

The Yellow fever vaccine is a live vaccine and can not be given to anyone that has already had a live vaccine within a one month period.

Examples of other live vaccines are measles, mumps, rubella and the varicella vaccine.

If you are concerned about any of these vaccines or need advice on when to obtain the Yellow fever vaccine then please get in touch.

We have doctors on hand to provide full consultations and can book you in for your travel vaccinations.