What is yellow fever?
Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, mainly in tropical regions of Africa and South America. It causes fever, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) and, in severe cases, organ failure. The virus belongs to the flavivirus family and has no specific treatment, but vaccination provides lifelong immunity.
Global spread of yellow fever
Yellow fever is endemic in 47 countries, with the highest risk in:
Africa: Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Sudan.
South America: Brazil, Peru, Bolivia and Colombia.
Outbreaks occur mainly in rural areas and jungles, but can spread to urban centers.
How is infection transmitted?
Vector: Aedes aegypti and Haemagogus mosquitoes.
Incubation: 3–6 days.
Symptoms: Fever, chills, muscle aches, nausea, and liver damage leading to jaundice.
Mortality rate: 20–50% in severe cases.
Who is fighting yellow fever?
World Health Organization (WHO): Manages global vaccination programs.
Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance: Supports funding for vaccination.
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Tracks outbreaks.
Sanofi Pasteur & Bio-Manguinhos: Leading vaccine manufacturers.
Medical experts and patient opinions
Doctors emphasize vaccination as the only effective prevention, while survivors describe debilitating symptoms and a long recovery period. Some report lifelong liver complications after severe cases.
Cost of prevention and treatment
Vaccine cost: $50–$200 per dose (varies by country).
Hospitalization: Can exceed $1,000 per day in severe cases.
Scientific data and formula
Virus family: Flaviviridae
Vaccine type: Live attenuated strain 17D
Yearly cases: 200,000+
Annual deaths: 30,000+
Yellow fever remains a global threat, but vaccination, mosquito control, and awareness can prevent outbreaks. If you’re traveling to high-risk areas, make sure you’re vaccinated!
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