Yellow fever is a mosquito-borne disease. The disease occurs in tropical and subtropical areas.
Disease Facts
This disease can affect both sexes, all ages and races. Jungle yellow fever, of tropical Central and South America, occurs predominantly among adult males 20 to 40 years old who are exposed in the tropical forests.
A certain type of mosquito, Aedes aegypti, is most often responsible for transmitting the virus.
Initial symptoms may be dengue-like and include fever, headache, vomiting and backache. As the disease progresses, the pulse slows and weakens, and bleeding of the gums and bloody urine occur. Jaundice may also occur.
Symptoms occur within three to six days after exposure.
Yes. People who have had yellow fever develop lifelong immunity.
There is no specific treatment for yellow fever. People traveling to areas where yellow fever may exist should be immunized.
Since transmission of yellow fever no longer occurs within the United States, it is important for travelers to be immunized prior to visiting areas where yellow fever exists.