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Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever can be described as a viral infection transmitted by infected mosquitoes belonging to a particular species. This infection could be mild or severe in intensity. Milder forms of yellow fever could cause a person to suffer from fever, nausea, vomiting and headaches. In most instances, yellow fever makes the skin take on a yellowish hue, which is what gives this infection its name.
Severe cases of the infection could lead to serious health complications, some of which include heart, kidney and liver damage, often accompanied by hemorrhaging (bleeding). Unfortunately, 20% to 50% of severe yellow Fever cases result in death.
The species of mosquitoes that can transmit Yellow Fever to humans is found mainly in certain parts of South America and Africa. Anyone who lives in or travels to these areas could be at a risk of contracting this disease. It is possible for people to protect themselves from the infection, by getting a yellow fever vaccine. Health experts claim that the prevention of Yellow Fever is much better than trying to cure it.
Studies indicate that this viral infection affects approximately 200,000 people across the globe each year. Out of these, around 30,000 cases result in death, annually. Unfortunately, yellow fever is on the rise all over the world, probably because of factors like deforestation, changes in climates, high-density urbanization and reduced immunity among the local population. People of all ages can contract yellow fever, but adults are at a higher risk of falling seriously ill.
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