Yellow fever certificate for Galapagos after Canal

[Pacific2012]

We're spending time in Panama before heading through the canal and on to the Galapagos Islands.

Panama does have areas of Yellow Fever, but the areas of Panama that we will be visiting (areas west of canal and canal zone itself) are Yellow Fever free and we do not require YF immunisation. However, entry to the Galapagos states that they require a certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination if entering from a country which has YF, which Panama does, but not in the parts we are going to be visiting.

Anyone know what the deal is? Do we need to get immunised just to get into Galapagos??!

[SteveT]

I don't know about Galapagos but many countries do require a valid Yellow Fever vaccination for entry. As it is valid for 10 years and so far as I know has no real risk of side-effects why not just get it. Also there is always the risk of Yellow Fever even in areas deemed to be free of it - better to be safe than sorry.

[rebel heart]

As far as vaccines go, it's one of the safest and most effective.

[barnakiel]

Do not expect any mercy in Galapagos. If they say it is required then get the immunization and that's it. You will not be in the position to discuss whether you visited 'this area' or 'that area' should you be checked in by an officer that takes their duty seriously. And most of them do!

BTW If stopping at Galapagos on your way to the islands then mind that you may be asked again once you get there. Galapagos is Ecuador and Ecuador is endemic too. So ...

Probably just get the shots done and off the list.

Cheers,
b.

[Dave852]

I visited the Galapagos in 2008 and 2011 both times en route from Panama to the Marquesas. Yellow Fever vaccines were not necessary at those times.

[Sailor g]

We got the Yellow Fever vaccine before heading out cruising. Our Travel Nurse cautioned us about side effects-which may be rare as with most vaccines. I still think its a good idea just in case. When you are in areas that are close to those that are affected. I just didn't want to take the risk.

http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/side-effects.htm