skip to main content

Yellow fever vaccination during breastfeeding — DTM&H MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardTravel MedicineYellow fever vaccination during breastfeedingDTM&H

A 30-year-old woman is planning a trip to the Amazon basin. She asks about yellow fever vaccination. She is currently breastfeeding a 4-month-old infant. What is the most appropriate advice?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Defer yellow fever vaccination until breastfeeding has ceased if travel can be postponed

Yellow fever vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine. Vaccine virus has been detected in breast milk and there are rare reports of vaccine-associated neurotropic disease in breastfed infants. If travel to a high-risk area cannot be postponed, vaccination may be given as the risk of yellow fever itself outweighs vaccine risk. If travel can be deferred, it is preferable to wait. Infants under 6 months should not receive yellow fever vaccine.

Reference: UKHSA Green Book; WHO Yellow Fever Vaccination Guidelines