The yellow fever virus, also called yellow plague or yellow jack, is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. An estimated 200,000 people around the world suffer from yellow fever every year. Endemic in tropical areas of Africa and Latin America, it is an acute viral hemorrhagic disease that can be fatal for people who don’t receive treatment.
Am I at risk?
The risk of contracting the disease varies depending on destination, season, length of stay, and types of activities in which the traveller participates. But the danger is higher for those visiting so-called risk areas, such as rural or jungle regions, especially for long periods of time.
Is there a cure for yellow fever?
Vaccination is the main preventive measure against this disease. A single dose is sufficient to give lasting immunity. If the yellow fever virus is contracted, the incubation period in the body lasts from three to six days, after which the disease manifests itself in either one or two phases.
The first, or acute, phase
The first phase of yellow fever usually causes the following symptoms:
- fever
- muscle aches
- headache
- chills
- loss of appetite
- exhaustion
- dizziness
- signs of dehydration
- nausea or vomiting
Is there a cure for yellow fever when it’s in the first phase? There is no specific treatment, other than taking measures to reduce symptoms and ensure patient comfort. Health improves gradually and symptoms disappear after three to four days.
The second, or toxic, phase
However, some patients enter a second phase within 24 hours of the initial remission. During the toxic phase, acute signs and symptoms return, and more severe life-threatening ones also appear. These can include jaundice, abdominal pain and vomiting, and bleeding from the mouth, nose, eyes, or in the stomach. Kidney function may also deteriorate. The toxic phase of yellow fever can be fatal for some patients, especially if their health is precarious, while others can recover without any risk of permanent damage to their organs.
Prevention is key
Yellow fever is difficult to diagnose, especially when symptoms first appear. That is because the signs can be confused with those of other hemorrhagic fevers, diseases, or poisoning. Is there a cure for yellow fever? For the time being, prevention is the only weapon against this disease. So, if you plan to visit an area at risk, be sure to consult a healthcare professional before you leave home.
