Yellow Fever is a potentially fatal viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes. There is no cure for Yellow Fever disease.
- Yellow Fever is endemic in Sub-Saharan Africa and in the Amazon basin in South America.
- You may require an official certification of Yellow Fever vaccination if your itinerary includes parts of South America or Africa.
- Without proof of Yellow Fever vaccination, you could be prevented from entering your destination country.
- The Yellow Fever vaccine is only available from a certified Yellow Fever Vaccine clinic/provider.
- Whether you should receive a yellow fever vaccine requires a consultation with a travel health specialist to discuss the risks and benefits of receiving the vaccine.
- In 2015, the World Health Organization eliminated the requirement for a Yellow Fever booster every 10 years. A certification of Yellow Fever vaccination is now designated as “valid for lifetime”, though certain individuals may still benefit from an additional booster dose
What is Yellow Fever?
Yellow fever is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, posing a serious health risk to travelers visiting endemic regions due to its potential for severe complications and high mortality rates. It is found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and South America. The disease gets its name from the jaundice that affects some patients, turning their skin and eyes yellow. The infection can range from mild to severe, leading to bleeding, organ failure, and death.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms typically appear 3 to 6 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Early symptoms may include fever, chills, headache, backache, and muscle aches. Some people may experience nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. While many people recover after this initial phase, approximately 15% of patients enter a second, more toxic phase within 24 hours, characterized by high fever, jaundice, abdominal pain, vomiting, bleeding, and kidney failure. The fatality rate for those who enter this toxic phase can be as high as 50%.
How dangerous is Yellow Fever?
This infection is potentially deadly, particularly for those who develop the severe form. The toxic phase can lead to severe complications such as liver and kidney failure, bleeding disorders, and shock. The risk of death is significant without proper medical treatment. Due to its high mortality rate and potential for causing large outbreaks, this illness is a major public health concern in endemic areas.
Who should get vaccinated?
Individuals who should get vaccinated include:
– Travelers to areas where the disease is endemic, including parts of Africa and South America
– Residents of regions where the disease is present
– Individuals participating in activities that expose them to mosquitoes in endemic areas
Where is it commonly found in overseas countries?
The disease is commonly found in tropical and subtropical areas of:
– Africa
– South America
Countries in these regions may have large areas where the disease is endemic. Travelers to these regions should take preventive measures, including vaccination, to reduce their risk of infection. It is important to check the latest travel health advisories and maps indicating risk areas before planning a trip to these countries.