Yellow fever is a severe and potentially fatal viral illness transmitted by Aedes aegypti and haemogugus mosquitoes. This disease is most common in specific regions of South America and Africa. Once the yellow fever virus infects humans, it can cause significant harm to the liver and other internal organs, potentially leading to death. Continue reading to discover more about yellow fever and the measures you can take to prevent it.
Yellow Fever Symptoms
Most individuals infected with the yellow fever virus either remain asymptomatic or experience only mild symptoms. Those who do exhibit symptoms typically notice them 3-6 days after infection. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe. Mild symptoms may include:
Severe symptoms may include:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin)
- Very high fever
- Haemorrhage (bleeding)
- Shock
- Kidney failure
- Liver failure
- Death.
How Does Yellow Fever Spread?
Yellow fever is generally transmitted to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes. These mosquitoes become carriers of the virus after biting primates (monkeys, apes) who are already infected. People cannot spread yellow fever to one another through casual contact. However, if an infected person is bitten by a mosquito, it can then transmit the virus to another individual. Additionally, the infection can potentially be spread directly into the bloodstream through contaminated needles.
Yellow Fever Treatment
There is no cure or specific treatment for yellow fever. Medical care for yellow fever primarily aims to alleviate symptoms, such as fever, dehydration and muscle pain. Your doctor may recommend plenty of rest and increased fluid intake to help you feel better. If you need a pain reliever, it is crucial to avoid aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) due to the risk of internal bleeding. For severe cases of yellow fever, hospitalisation is necessary to provide appropriate care and monitoring.
Yellow Fever Prevention
Because there is no cure for yellow fever, it is crucial to take prevention measures. If you plan to visit an area known to have yellow fever, get vaccinated three to four weeks before your trip. For most individuals, a single yellow fever shot provides lifelong protection. Other preventive measures include:
- Use a mosquito repellent containing DEET.
- Consider using a bed net if your lodging lacks window screens or air conditioning.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks, ideally treated with mosquito repellent.
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity times, typically from dusk to dawn, though some mosquitoes that spread yellow fever are active during the day.
- If you have already been infected with yellow fever, continue to stay covered to prevent mosquitoes from biting you and then potentially infecting others.
Yellow Fever Vaccination
The yellow fever vaccination is recommended for both adults and children over nine months old who are travelling to or living in regions with a known risk of yellow fever. Many countries in Africa and Latin America with the highest risk of yellow fever exposure require proof of vaccination for entry.
Travel medicine clinics and state or local health departments typically offer the vaccine, which should be repeated every 10 years for those travelling to high-risk areas. These approved centres can also provide the International Certificate of Vaccination, necessary for entry into certain at-risk countries. If you experience flu-like symptoms, a fever or other unusual symptoms after receiving the vaccine, contact your doctor immediately. In rare cases, the yellow fever vaccine has caused allergic reactions, nervous system issues and life-threatening illness.
Who Should Not Get Yellow Fever Vaccination?
Yellow fever vaccination is not recommended for everyone due to the potential for serious adverse effects in certain individuals. Efforts are ongoing to develop a safer vaccine. Consult your doctor before receiving the vaccine if you:
- Have thymus gland problems or cancer
- Suffer from a compromised immune system, like from HIV
- Have undergone treatments that can disrupt the immune system, like cancer therapy or steroids
- Have had a severe allergic reaction to chicken, gelatin, eggs or a previous yellow fever vaccine
- Have a child younger than 9 months old
- Are breastfeeding or pregnant
- Are over the age of 65 or more.
Conclusion
Yellow fever is a viral disease occurring in parts of Africa and South America, transmitted through mosquito bites. While it can be deadly, you can completely prevent it by receiving the yellow fever vaccine.
Additionally, using mosquito repellent and wearing protective clothing can help prevent mosquito bites. If you experience symptoms, such as body aches or fever after visiting areas known for yellow fever outbreaks, contact your doctor immediately.
