Table of Contents
What is Yellow Fever?
Yellow Fever – Definition: Yellow fever is a viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the yellow fever virus. The virus is a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA virus of the family Flaviviridae. It is transmitted by mosquitoes, most commonly Aedes aegypti. The virus is endemic in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and South America. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal disease. The most common symptoms are fever, headache, muscle pain, and nausea. In severe cases, yellow fever can lead to hemorrhagic fever, jaundice, and death. There is no specific treatment for yellow fever. Prevention is through vaccination and mosquito control.
Origin of Yellow Fever
The origin of yellow fever is unknown, but the disease is believed to have originated in Africa. The first recorded outbreak of yellow fever occurred in 1647 in Barbados.
Causes of Yellow Fever
There are many different causes of yellow fever. One of the most common causes is a virus that is spread through mosquito bites. Mosquitoes that carry the virus can bite humans, as well as other animals, such as monkeys. Other causes of yellow fever include bacterial infections, environmental toxins, and autoimmune disorders.
Symptoms of Yellow Fever
The incubation period for yellow fever is three to six days. Symptoms of yellow fever include fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. About 15% of people who get yellow fever develop jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Severe cases of yellow fever can lead to bleeding, kidney failure, and death.
Diagnostic Method for Yellow Fever
There is no definitive diagnostic test for yellow fever. A diagnosis of yellow fever is usually based on a person’s symptoms and recent travel history. Laboratory tests can help confirm a diagnosis, but they are not always conclusive.
Yellow Fever Treatment
There is no specific treatment for yellow fever. Treatment is supportive and may include fluids, rest, and pain relief. In severe cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary. Antiviral medications, such as ribavirin, may be effective in treating some cases of yellow fever, but their use is still being studied.
Prevention Methods for Yellow Fever
- There is currently no vaccine licensed for use in the United States for prevention of yellow fever. However, there are two yellow fever vaccines available: an older 17-dose vaccine and a newer 11-dose vaccine.
- The 17-dose vaccine is available in the United States, but is not licensed for use in persons younger than 9 years of age. The 11-dose vaccine is available in the United States, and is licensed for use in persons aged 9 months and older.
- Both vaccines are effective in preventing yellow fever. The older vaccine is about 90% effective, and the newer vaccine is about 99% effective.
- The best way to prevent yellow fever is to get vaccinated.
