Yellow fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease found in parts of sub-Saharan Africa and South America.
Where to get it
In Hong Kong, the yellow fever vaccine is available only at the Department of Health's two Travel Health Centres — the only authorised locations in the territory. Ordinary private clinics do not offer it.
The certificate (International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis)
Yellow fever is the only disease for which countries may require proof of vaccination as a condition of entry under the International Health Regulations (2005). Some countries in Africa and South America require travellers arriving from or passing through yellow-fever-endemic areas to show a valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis.
Key point: the certificate becomes valid 10 days after the dose. If you get vaccinated too close to departure, the certificate may not yet be valid, which can affect entry.
Booking and timing
Because the certificate takes time to become valid — and because supply and appointments need arranging — book by phone with a Travel Health Centre at least 8 weeks before departure. For urgent travel, give the centre your destination, departure date and flight itinerary so they can try to accommodate you.
If you can't be vaccinated
If the vaccine isn't suitable because of age, pregnancy, immune status or another medical reason, a doctor will assess the risk and, where appropriate, issue a medical exemption certificate. Whether the destination country accepts an exemption is ultimately that country's decision.
Before you go, check the DH Travel Health Service website and confirm with a Travel Health Centre whether your destination has a requirement.