If you're traveling to parts of Africa or South America, you may legally need a Yellow Fever vaccine to enter the country. Without it, you could be denied boarding or turned away at the border. Here's everything Calgary travelers need to know.
What Is Yellow Fever?
Yellow fever is a serious viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical regions of Africa and South America. Most cases are mild, but severe yellow fever can cause high fever, jaundice (yellowing of the skin — hence the name), organ failure, and death. The fatality rate for severe cases is 20–50%.
There is no treatment for yellow fever. The only protection is vaccination.
Which Countries Require Yellow Fever Vaccination?
Many countries in Africa and South America require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination for entry. These include:
Africa: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda
South America: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela
Some countries also require the vaccine if you're arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever-endemic country — even if it was just a layover.
The International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card)
After receiving the vaccine, you'll be issued an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), commonly called the "Yellow Card." This is an official document that border officials will check. A single dose provides lifetime protection — you'll never need a booster.
Where to Get Yellow Fever Vaccine in Calgary
Not every pharmacy or clinic can administer Yellow Fever vaccine. Only designated Yellow Fever vaccination centres are authorized to give the vaccine and issue the official certificate.
Imagine Health Pharmacy is a designated Yellow Fever vaccination centre in South Calgary. We stock the vaccine, administer it on-site, and issue your official ICVP — all in a single visit.
When to Get Vaccinated
The Yellow Fever vaccine takes 10 days to become effective. Most countries require that you were vaccinated at least 10 days before arrival. Plan your appointment accordingly — but if you're in a rush, come in as soon as possible.
Side Effects
Most people experience little to no side effects. Some may have mild soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, or fatigue for 1–2 days. Serious reactions are extremely rare. Our pharmacist will review your health history to ensure the vaccine is safe for you.
Book Your Yellow Fever Vaccination
Don't wait until the last week before your trip. Book your appointment at Imagine Health Pharmacy and get your Yellow Fever vaccine and official certificate sorted.
📍 #4120 – 15 Sunpark Plaza SE, Calgary, AB T2X 0M5 (Sundance, Macleod Trail)
📞 (403) 910-3990
🌐 Learn more about our Travel Health Clinic
Countries Where Yellow Fever Vaccine Is Required or Recommended
- Kenya — Required for most travellers
- Tanzania — Required for most travellers
- Rwanda — Required
- Uganda — Required
- Ghana — Required
- Ethiopia — Required
- Brazil — Recommended for Amazon region
- Colombia — Recommended for Amazon region
- Peru — Recommended for Amazon region
- Botswana — Required if arriving from endemic country
Book your yellow fever vaccine in Calgary at Imagine Health Pharmacy. We are an authorized yellow fever vaccination centre in Alberta and can issue your International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card).