Question 1

What is yellow fever?

Accepted Answer

Yellow fever is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes. It can cause fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, and, in severe cases, liver and kidney problems. The disease gets its name from the yellowing of the skin (jaundice) that can occur in advanced cases.
Source: CDC

Question 2

What are the symptoms of yellow fever?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms of yellow fever can include sudden fever, chills, headache, back pain, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. In more severe cases, people may develop jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), bleeding, and organ failure.

Question 3

How is yellow fever transmitted?

Accepted Answer

Yellow fever is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes or Haemagogus mosquitoes. The virus is not spread directly from person to person.

Question 4

Where is yellow fever found?

Accepted Answer

Yellow fever is most common in parts of sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America. It is not found in the United States, but travelers to affected regions may be at risk.

Question 5

Which mosquito spreads yellow fever?

Accepted Answer

Yellow fever is primarily spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, though other types of mosquitoes, such as Haemagogus species, can also carry the virus in certain regions.

Question 6

Can yellow fever be fatal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, yellow fever can be fatal. While many people recover fully, severe cases can cause life-threatening complications such as liver and kidney failure, internal bleeding, and shock.

Question 7

Can yellow fever be treated or cured?

Accepted Answer

There is no specific cure for yellow fever. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and providing supportive care, such as fluids and monitoring in a hospital. Prevention through vaccination is the best protection.

Question 8

Can yellow fever spread from person to person?

Accepted Answer

No, yellow fever does not spread directly from person to person. It is transmitted only through the bite of infected mosquitoes.

Question 9

What does the yellow fever vaccine prevent?

Accepted Answer

The yellow fever vaccine helps protect against infection with the yellow fever virus. It is highly effective and recommended for people traveling to or living in areas where yellow fever is found.

Question 10

How long does the yellow fever vaccine last?

Accepted Answer

A single dose of the yellow fever vaccine provides lifelong protection for most people. Booster doses are generally not needed except in rare circumstances.

Yellow Fever Medications