Yellow fever

What you need to know about Yellow Fever.

Yellow Fever is a serious and sometimes fatal viral infection transmitted by infected Aedes mosquitoes that bite during daylight hours. The infection is spread from infected monkeys and humans and is considered to be one of the most lethal viral diseases. Yellow Fever mosquitoes are often found in tropical parts of Africa and South America.

Facts:

• There is no cure for Yellow Fever. Treatment is aimed at reducing symptoms for the comfort of the patient.
• Yellow Fever occurs in tropical parts of South America and Sub-Saharan Africa, most commonly West Africa.
• Common in jungle and urban areas especially during rainy season.

Signs and Symptoms

Initial symptoms include;

• Fever
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Backache

As the disease progresses the pulse slows and weakens and bleeding of the gums and bloody urine occur. Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin) may also occur. Yellow Fever is fatal in approximately 20% – 40% of cases.

Symptoms usually occur within 3-6 days after exposure to the infection.

Prevention

There is no specific treatment for Yellow Fever. However, Yellow Fever vaccine is effective and available. People travelling to areas where Yellow Fever may be present should be immunised.

In addition, certain countries require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination or an exemption certificate before persons are permitted entry. Failure to provide a valid certificate can lead to a traveller being quarantined, immunised or denied entry.

For a detailed list consult our travel specialists at Armada Travel Clinic, or visit the World Health Organization (WHO) web site.

Endemic Regions

Click on the following links to see the current Yellow Fever endemic areas;

• Africa – WHO map Africa
• South America – WHO map South America

Vaccination

Armada Travel Clinic is a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre and has been authorised by NaTHNaC (as the regulatory body for England, Wales and Northern Ireland), to administer yellow fever vaccine in accordance with International Health Regulations (2005).

Contact one of our Travel Specialists to arrange for a consultation on 01375480579. Vaccination must be received no less than 10 days before entry to the country.

Additional Information

Yellow Fever is a mosquito-transmitted infection. Even if someone has been vaccinated against the disease, they should still take precautions to reduce the risk of mosquito bites. These include use of mosquito repellents containing DEET, covering exposed body parts, and using insecticide impregnated bed nets while sleeping. These measures should reduce the risk of other mosquito-transmitted diseases for which there are no vaccines.

Further information about Yellow Fever can be found on: CDC Yellow Fever information