What is Yellow Fever and How to Protect Yourself From It?

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a virus that is spread by mosquitoes. Symptoms of yellow fever include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and muscle pain. In severe cases, yellow fever can lead to organ failure and death. There is no specific treatment for yellow fever, which is why it is important to take steps to avoid mosquito bites and avoid areas where the disease is common. Yellow fever, also known as icteric fever, is a viral inflammation of the liver caused by a mosquito. The yellow fever virus is divided into 2 types:

• Type I - Siberian yellow fever virus, which occurs in Russia, China, and occasionally in Europe.
• Type II - African yellow fever virus, which is present in Sub-Saharan Africa. It is much more dangerous and fatal than type I.

If you are bitten by a mosquito carrying the yellow fever virus, the probability of contracting the disease is about 25%. However, scientists still have trouble stating with 100% certainty whether this percentage can be taken seriously or not. So far, however, it is believed that 25% represents the real risk.

How can you contract yellow fever?

Yellow fever is a viral disease that can be transmitted via respiratory droplets. It can be contracted through contact with an infected person or through direct contact with food or water contaminated by the virus. Yellow fever can be contracted in several ways. The most common way is through the bite of an infected mosquito. Other ways include contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person, or through contact with a contaminated environment, such as clothing or bedding that has been in contact with an infected person. It is also possible for a mosquito to bite a person already infected with yellow fever and transmit the virus to another person. There is also a chance that a mosquito becomes a carrier of the virus after biting a monkey and only then transmits the disease to a human.

What are the symptoms of yellow fever?

Yellow fever is a viral infectious disease that manifests as fever, muscle and bone pain, and enlarged lymph nodes. The disease can also lead to complications such as damage to the liver, kidneys, or brain. In severe cases, yellow fever can lead to liver failure and death.

How to treat yellow fever?

To treat yellow fever, you should consult a doctor. They may recommend antibiotics or other prescription medications. There is no specific treatment for yellow fever. For patients suffering from yellow fever, symptomatic treatment is most often implemented, which is primarily based on hydrating the sick individuals and administering analgesics and antipyretics. It is also worth knowing that non-standard anti-inflammatory drugs, which could worsen the symptoms, should be avoided during treatment. There is also no vaccine available for yellow fever. The best way to prevent the disease is to avoid areas where the virus occurs.