What should you do if you are not sure you have the yellow fever vaccine or if you lost your card?

With the arrival of the Easter weekthat this year is commemorates between April 13 and 20the displacements to tourist regions increase, many of which require the yellow fever vaccine As an entry requirement.

This is because, at this time, the risk of Transmission of infectious diseases like this, especially in endemic areas.

Also read: How long does the immunity of the yellow fever vaccine last and how many doses are necessary?

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Given the number of travelers and the interest in visiting natural or international destinations, many people have expressed doubts about whether they have the vaccine, what to do If they lost the card or if they should receive a new dose.

For this reason, in RCN Radio we consult the Dr. Eric Geovanny DelgadoMaster doctor in Infectious diseases and head of the Hospital Epidemiology Service of the Central Military Hospitalto solve the main concerns about this disease and its prevention.

Also read: Where to vaccinate free against yellow fever in Colombia?

What should I do if I’m not sure I received the vaccine or lost the card?

Given this concern, Dr. Delgado indicated that “the Nominal information system Paiweb is the tool where monitoring is performed and manages to the vaccination history of citizens in Colombia that are subject to the PAI of the MSPS. ”Through this system, it is possible to verify whether the person already has officially registered immunization.

In case of not finding said record and if it is within the age range allowed, you can Go to an IPS authorized to request the vaccine. It is worth remembering that this immunization is free in Colombia.

Does the yellow fever vaccine offer life protection?

Yes. The expert explained that “different studies have demonstrated the long -term protection of the vaccine, therefore, a single dose is sufficient to generate life protection.” In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) has eliminated the demand for revaccination since 2014 Every ten years.

How long before traveling should I get vaccinated against yellow fever?

As an international requirement, the vaccine must be applied “At least 10 days in advance of the trip.” In the case of Colombia, those who plan to enter Natural National Parks must be immunized at least 15 days before the date planned for their visit.

Of interest: What are the main causes of chronic diseases? Keys to prevent them

From what age can the vaccine be received?

Dr. Delgado explained that “The yellow fever vaccine applies from 9 months of age”. In Colombia, it is part of the regular scheme at 18 months, although in endemic areas it starts from 12 months.

The limit age for its application is Until 59 years, 11 months and 29 dayssince in older adults there is a greater risk of adverse events.

Who should not be vaccinated?

This biological is contraindicated in certain population groups. According to Dr. Delgado:

• Pregnant women.
• Over 60 years.
• Immunization in transplanted, patients with HIV, pregnant in third quarter and other immunocompromised It can generate ineffective or short -term titles.
• It is contraindicated in breastfeeding by the risk of transmitting the virus to the neonate and causing encephalitis.
• I also know advise in people with autoimmune diseasessevere immunosuppression, serious egg allergy, acute fever, or those who have recently received vaccines against cholera or typhoid fever.

How is yellow fever transmitted?

Yellow fever is a Acute hemorrhagic viral disease, endemic in tropical areas of Africa and America. Its transmission is given through the mosquito bite Aedes aegypti, Haemagogus and Sabethes.

The virus can infect human beings and other primatesand the risk is higher in regions located below 1300 meters above sea level.

What are the initial symptoms of yellow fever?

The mild phase can Include fever, chills, headache, nausea and vomitingsymptoms that usually last from 1 to 3 days. However, in its serious or classical form, it can cause jaundice, liver or renal failure, hemorrhages, black vomiting and even death.

A relevant clinical sign is the Faget sign, that is, the presence of high fever accompanied by bradycardia.

How is the diagnosis of yellow fever confirmed?

The diagnosis is based on the Combination of clinical criteria, epidemiological background and laboratory tests as:

• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
• Serological tests (Elisa or PRRNT).
• Cultivation and immunohistochemistry.

What to do if I present symptoms after traveling to a risk zone?

Dr. Delgado recommended that it is due “Consult immediately to the Emergency Department for Medical Valuation informing signs, symptoms and displacement to endemic areas in the last 15 days, and Do not have previous vaccination”

In addition, he emphasized Do not self -medicate, stay hydrated, and avoid aspirins, anti -inflammatories or injectionsdue to the risk of aggravating the clinical picture.

Is there a specific treatment for yellow fever?

At the moment There is no curative treatment for this disease. “In severe cases, symptomatic and support treatment is indicated, particularly rehydration and hypotension control,” said Dr. Delgado. In some Cases Dialysis due to renal failure may be required.

For this reason, the prevention by vaccination remains the main tool to protect yourself Against this potentially deadly disease.