Skip the Mumbai Trip: Vidarbha Travelers Now Get Yellow Fever Shots in Nagpur

Between April 2024 and March 2025, a total of 667 travellers received the yellow fever vaccine at Daga Government Women’s Hospital in Nagpur. This marked a significant milestone for residents of Vidarbha and nearby regions, who had previously had to travel to Mumbai or Pune for the mandatory vaccination required for international travel to several African and South American countries.

Yellow fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease for which vaccination is essential, especially for travelers visiting endemic regions. Immunisation is a World Health Organization (WHO) requirement, and a valid certificate is needed for immigration clearance in several countries. The vaccine offers lifelong protection with a single dose, making it a critical pre-travel health step.

Until recently, people in Nagpur and Vidarbha had limited options. The only government-authorized yellow fever vaccination centers were located in Mumbai and Pune, causing inconvenience, additional travel expenses, and delays for those planning international trips. One private hospital in Nagpur also offered the vaccine but charged between ₹5,000 and ₹15,000, making it unaffordable for many.

In 2022, the Maharashtra health department established a yellow fever vaccination center at Daga Hospital. Initially, the service was irregular due to a lack of trained personnel. However, since a general physician was assigned permanently to administer vaccines every Friday, the center has become a dependable resource for travelers. During periods of high demand, especially in the summer months, the hospital has arranged for additional doses and extra sessions to accommodate the surge in applicants.

Dr Dilip Madavi, medical superintendent at Daga Hospital, stated that the centre has significantly reduced the burden on travellers from Vidarbha and neighbouring districts. Many of the 667 beneficiaries have saved time and expenses that would otherwise be spent on outstation travel.

The yellow fever vaccine is administered once a week, usually on Fridays, and comes with an internationally recognized certificate that is mandatory for entry into many countries. In case of increased demand, the hospital schedules extra sessions to ensure timely service.

With this initiative, Nagpur has emerged as a reliable and affordable hub for yellow fever vaccination, benefitting hundreds and ensuring travelers from the region meet global health compliance norms without added financial strain.

(Rh/Sakshi Thakar/MSM/SE)