Are you planning a trip to a country in Africa or South America? Or are you looking to work in one of those countries? Then you definitely need to be aware, because today we are talking about a dangerous viral disease that is spread by mosquitoes. This disease is called " Yellow Fever ". It gets its name because it causes the skin and eyes to turn yellow.
What exactly is yellow fever?
Simply put, yellow fever is a viral infection that is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. These mosquitoes are most commonly found in South America and parts of Africa. When this virus enters the human body, it can damage our liver and other internal organs. Sometimes this condition can be fatal.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there are about 200,000 cases of yellow fever worldwide each year, and about 30,000 deaths. Unfortunately, the spread of this disease is increasing due to factors such as deforestation, climate change, and high population density.
How is this disease transmitted?
Yellow fever is mainly spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes. It is not spread from person to person through casual contact, such as sneezing or coughing. That is a big relief for many people. However, the disease can be spread if the virus enters the bloodstream directly, such as through a needle that has been contaminated with infected blood.
Several species of mosquitoes spread the virus. Some mosquitoes breed in urban environments, while others breed in forests. Mosquitoes in forests also spread the disease to monkeys. So, in addition to humans, monkeys also act as hosts for this disease.
What are the symptoms of yellow fever?
When infected with yellow fever, not everyone shows the same symptoms. Some people may not have any symptoms at all. For others, symptoms begin to appear three to six days after being bitten by a mosquito.
Generally, three main stages of this disease can be seen.
1. Initial Phase: This lasts for about three to four days. The symptoms during this period are very similar to those of a common viral flu.
2. Remission Phase: This lasts about 48 hours. During this time, the patient's condition improves slightly. The fever decreases and the body feels better. Most people recover completely after this phase.
3. Toxic Phase: Unfortunately, between 15% and 25% of patients will experience this dangerous third phase. This is where serious complications occur.
The table below clearly explains these stages and their associated symptoms.
| Stage of the disease | Common symptoms |
|---|---|
| First stage (3-4 days) |
|
| Second stage (48 hours) | Symptoms subside, the patient's condition improves, and many people recover. |
| Third (severe) stage |
Most importantly, the World Health Organization says that about 50% of patients who enter this severe third stage die. Therefore, this disease should not be underestimated at all.
How is the disease diagnosed and treated?
Doctors diagnose the disease based on your symptoms, information about places you've recently traveled, and blood tests. The symptoms of yellow fever can be similar to other tropical diseases, such as malaria and typhoid. Therefore, if you've recently traveled to a high-risk country and develop symptoms like these, see your doctor right away.
Unfortunately, there is no specific medicine yet to kill this virus. This means there is no cure . Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms. For example, treating conditions such as fever, body aches, and dehydration.
Very important: If you suspect you have yellow fever, do not take aspirin or other NSAID painkillers (e.g., ibuprofen, diclofenac) for any reason. These medications can increase the risk of internal bleeding. Such patients are usually treated in the hospital.
Prevention is the best - let's learn about vaccination!
Since there is no specific treatment for this, the best and only option is to prevent contracting the disease. There is a Yellow Fever Vaccine for that.
Children over 9 months of age and adults traveling to or living in countries at risk of yellow fever are advised to get this vaccine. In fact, some countries in Africa and Latin America require an International Certificate of Vaccination (ICV) before entering their country. This vaccine is usually recommended to be repeated every 10 years.
Who should not get the yellow fever vaccine?
This vaccine is not suitable for everyone. Some people may experience serious side effects from this vaccine. Therefore, if you belong to the following groups, be sure to discuss it with your doctor before getting the vaccine.
- People whose immune systems are weakened by a disease such as HIV
- Cancer patients or those with thymus gland problems
- People receiving treatments that affect the immune system, such as steroids or cancer treatments
- People who have had a severe allergic reaction to eggs, chicken, gelatin, or a previous yellow fever vaccine
- Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers
- People over 65 years of age
- Children under 9 months of age
Other safety measures that can be taken in addition to vaccination
Getting vaccinated is the most important thing, but in addition, there are several other steps you can take to protect yourself from mosquitoes.
- Use insect repellent: Apply insect repellent containing ingredients like DEET and picaridin to exposed skin.
- Dress appropriately: Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants can help reduce mosquito bites.
- Repellent for clothing and nets: Spray a repellent containing permethrin on the outside of mosquito nets, clothing, etc.
- Install screens on windows and doors: Prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. Always sleep under a mosquito net.
- Avoid going outdoors during peak mosquito hours: Mosquitoes are most active in the evening and early morning.
Take-Home Message
- Yellow Fever is a serious viral disease spread by mosquitoes, common in African and South American countries.
- Since there is no specific treatment for this disease, it is very important to prevent contracting it. The best way to do that is to get the yellow fever vaccine.
- If you develop symptoms such as fever, body aches, and yellowing of the skin after traveling to a high-risk country and returning, seek medical advice immediately.
- Never take aspirin or other NSAID painkillers if you suspect yellow fever.
- It is essential to discuss your health status and travel plans with your doctor before any foreign trip, especially before getting the yellow fever vaccine.
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