Why Isn’t the Yellow Fever Vaccine Recommended for Those Over 60?
If you’re aged 60 or over and planning a trip to parts of Africa, South America, or the Caribbean, you may be told that the yellow fever vaccine is not advised for your age group. But why is that? Is the yellow fever vaccine safe for older travellers? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What is Yellow Fever?
Yellow fever is a serious illness spread by mosquitoes. It can cause high fever, headaches, jaundice (yellow skin or eyes), bleeding and, in severe cases, organ failure or death. The virus is found in parts of Africa, South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. You can’t catch it from another person, but you can get it if a mosquito bites someone infected and then bites you.
Because there is no cure for yellow fever, vaccination is the best way to protect yourself before travelling.
What is the Yellow Fever Vaccine?
The yellow fever vaccine is a single injection that gives long-lasting protection, often for life. It’s usually required if you’re entering a country where yellow fever is a risk. Most people can take it without any problems.
However, for people over 60, there are specific concerns due to the side effects of the yellow fever vaccine in this age group.
Yellow Fever Vaccine Age Limit: Why the Caution?
The yellow fever vaccine for over 60 years of age is only recommended when absolutely necessary. This is because, with age, your immune system may weaken. As a result, the chance of serious side effects, although rare, becomes higher.
You might be offered the vaccine only if:
- You are healthy with no ongoing medical conditions.
- You cannot avoid travel to a country where yellow fever is common.
Otherwise, our pharmacists may advise against it or provide a medical exemption certificate.
What Are the Risks for Over 60s?
While side effects are rare, when they do occur in older adults, they can be severe. Here are two known risks:
Yellow Fever Vaccine-Associated Neurological Disease (YEL-AND)
This affects the brain and nervous system, causing:
- Confusion
- Loss of coordination
- Problems with balance and movement
This happens in about 2.2 cases per 100,000 people who receive the vaccine.
Yellow Fever Vaccine-Associated Viscerotropic Disease (YEL-AVD)
This is much more serious and mimics the effects of yellow fever itself. It can cause:
- Organ failure
- In some cases, death (around half of the known cases)
YEL-AVD occurs in about 1.2 cases per 100,000 vaccine doses but is more common in older adults.
Is the Yellow Fever Vaccine Safe for Over 60s?
So, is the yellow fever vaccine safe if you’re over 60? The short answer: it depends. If you’re in good health, and there’s no alternative to travelling to a high-risk area, it may be considered safe after a full risk assessment. But for many, especially those with other health conditions, it may not be worth the risk.
What Are Your Options?
If you’re over 60 and planning to travel, speak to our pharmacists first. They will:
- Assess your travel destination’s entry requirements.
- Review your health history.
- Advise on whether you need the vaccine or a waiver.
Sometimes, a yellow fever exemption certificate is accepted by the country you’re visiting. This official note explains why you haven’t had the vaccine and may allow you entry without it.
Travelling After 60? Get the Right Travel Advice
Whether it’s the yellow fever vaccine, a medical exemption, or alternative protection tips, we’ll guide you through every step of your journey. If you’re living around Harlesden or Wembley, book an appointment today at S&S Chemists to get personalised travel vaccine advice from our experienced pharmacists.