Yellow Fever
Yellow fever is a viral disease, which is spread by the bite of a mosquito. The geographical distribution of yellow fever is confined to Equatorial Africa and South America. Strangely yellow fever is unknown in Asia despite the presence of mosquitoes capable of spreading the virus. Infection causes a wide spectrum of disease, from mild symptoms to severe illness and death. The ‘yellow’ in the name is explained by the jaundice that affects some patients. Although an effective vaccine has been available for 60 years, the number of people infected over the last two decades has increased and yellow fever is now a serious public health issue again. The disease is caused by the yellow fever virus, which belongs to the flavivirus group. In Africa there are two distinct genetic types (called topotypes) associated with East and West Africa. South America has two different types, but since 1974 only one has been identified as the cause of disease outbreaks.
Nevertheless in general, all traveller’s going to an endemic area require a yellow fever vaccination certificate and traveller’s going to some parts of Asia from an endemic region will also require a certificate.
Manifestation: The disease can have three different presentations:
Subclinical, without any symptoms.
Flu-like disease with:
- Fever
- Muscle pain
- Head-ache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Recovery
Severe fever with death in a few days with kidney failure, liver failure and haemorrhage.
Diagnosis and treatment: No curative treatment is available. Overall about 5% of patients die. Those who recover do so completely and are immune thereafter.
Vaccination: Yellow fever vaccine highly effective. The protective effect (immunity) occurs within one week in 95% of people vaccinated. A single dose of vaccine provides protection for 10 years and probably for life. Vaccination is highly recommended for travellers to high-risk areas. A vaccination certificate is required for entry to many countries, particularly for travellers arriving in Asia from Africa or South America. Fatal cases in unvaccinated tourists have been reported.
Prevent yellow fever:
- Vaccination
- Avoid mosquito bites by remaining in well screened areas
- Avoid mosquito bites by remaining in air-conditioned areas.
- Use mosquito repellents on skin and clothing
- Bring aerosol insecticides to use indoors
- Use bed nets
Information Only
The content above is for information purposes only and we have tried to ensure that the information is as accurate as possible. We cannot accept any responsibility for any inconvenience, loss or injury as a result of the information above. You should always check and verify any critical information like visas, health and safety and customs with the relevant authorities before you travel since information can change at any time.
