Yellow Fever Disease - Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Yellow fever is a viral haemorrhagic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, most commonly found in parts of Africa and South America. Though not present in India, it remains a travel concern for individuals visiting high-risk regions. The illness ranges from mild to severe, sometimes leading to fatal complications such as liver failure or internal bleeding.
With global travel on the rise, awareness of yellow fever symptoms, causes of yellow fever, and effective prevention methods is essential. Timely diagnosis and vaccination remain the most effective forms of protection against this serious illness. Here’s what you need to know about yellow fever.

What is Yellow Fever?

Yellow fever is a viral disease caused by the yellow fever virus, a flavivirus spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes, particularly Aedes and Haemagogus species. It gets its name from the jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) that some patients develop in more severe cases. Although yellow fever is not directly contagious from person to person, its impact can be widespread in outbreak-prone areas. This disease is recognised for its rapid onset and potential to escalate into life-threatening stages without prompt medical care.

Causes and Transmission of Yellow Fever

The causes of yellow fever lie in the transmission of the virus by mosquitoes, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. When a mosquito bites an infected human or monkey and then bites another person, the virus is passed on. Transmission occurs mostly during the day, and the virus incubates in the body for 3 to 6 days before symptoms appear.
There are three transmission cycles: sylvatic (jungle), intermediate (savannah), and urban. In urban settings, the virus can spread quickly through densely populated areas lacking proper mosquito control. Environmental factors like rainfall and deforestation also influence transmission rates.

Symptoms of Yellow Fever

The yellow fever symptoms vary depending on the severity and stage of infection. Initial signs are often mistaken for the common flu but can progress rapidly:

• Sudden high fever
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle and joint pain
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Loss of appetite
• General fatigue
• Chills

Acute Phase Symptoms

Most individuals experience yellow fever in its acute phase, which lasts 3–4 days:

• High-grade fever
• Weakness
• Body and back pain
• Headache
• Shivers and chills
• Nausea
• Flushed face
• Red eyes
• Low blood pressure
• Rapid pulse

Toxic Phase Symptoms

About 15% of patients may enter the toxic phase, which can be life-threatening:

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Abdominal pain and vomiting (sometimes with blood)
• Decreased urination
• Liver and kidney dysfunction
• Bleeding from the nose, eyes, or mouth
• Slow heart rate despite fever
• Seizures
• Coma
• Organ failure

Also Read: Viral Fever: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment

Diagnosis of Yellow Fever

Yellow fever diagnosis involves a combination of clinical observation and laboratory tests:

• Review of recent travel to endemic areas
• Blood tests to detect virus-specific antibodies
• RT-PCR for early-stage viral RNA detection
• Liver function tests to assess damage
• Monitoring symptoms progression
• Exclusion of other illnesses with similar symptoms (e.g., dengue, malaria)
• WHO reporting protocol in confirmed cases

Treatment and Management of Yellow Fever

Currently, there is no yellow fever cure, and treatment is supportive in nature. It focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications:

• Hospitalisation for severe cases
• Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration
• Pain and fever relief with paracetamol (not aspirin)
• Monitoring for liver and kidney function
• Blood transfusions in cases of severe bleeding
• Isolation to prevent mosquito-borne spread
• Rest and immune support

Prevention Strategies for Yellow Fever

Yellow fever prevention is highly effective and relies on vaccination and mosquito control:

• Yellow fever vaccination (valid for life after a single dose)
• Avoiding travel to endemic areas during outbreaks
• Using insect repellent with DEET
• Wearing full-sleeved clothing in tropical regions
• Sleeping under mosquito nets
• Ensuring homes are mosquito-proofed
• Avoiding outdoor activity at dawn and dusk

Yellow Fever: Global Epidemiology and Statistics

Yellow Fever in India: Status and Travel Guidelines

Although yellow fever disease does not occur in India, the government has implemented preventive travel protocols. All travellers arriving from or transiting through yellow fever-endemic countries must present valid vaccination certificates.
The vaccine should be taken at least 10 days before travel. Indian ports of entry monitor compliance strictly. Designated yellow fever vaccination centres are authorised to issue internationally recognised certificates. Travellers without proof of vaccination may be quarantined. Thus, awareness and adherence to travel guidelines are crucial for ensuring individual and public safety.

Also Read: What is Cumulative Bonus in Health Insurance and How Does It Work?

Health Insurance Coverage for Yellow Fever

While yellow fever is preventable, treatment costs during international travel can be substantial. Fortunately, plans like Bajaj Allianz Health Insurance, with its 18,400+ hospital network, offer extensive support in managing infectious diseases.
Coverage may include hospitalisation, diagnostics, and post-recovery care, depending on policy terms. It’s advisable to choose international coverage if travelling to high-risk zones. Bajaj Allianz Health Insurance also offers plans that cater to travel health risks, including vector-borne illnesses, offering peace of mind wherever you go.

Conclusion

Yellow fever remains a dangerous but preventable disease, especially for global travellers. Understanding yellow fever symptoms, recognising risk areas, and taking proper precautions such as vaccination are vital steps in personal protection. While there's no specific yellow fever cure, timely treatment can reduce risks. Stay informed, stay protected.

FAQs

Is yellow fever present in India?

No, yellow fever is not found in India. However, strict vaccination requirements are in place for travellers coming from affected countries to prevent potential outbreaks.

What are the vaccination requirements for travellers regarding yellow fever?

Travellers to or from yellow fever-endemic regions must carry an international vaccination certificate, issued at least 10 days prior to travel, as per WHO regulations.

Does Bajaj Allianz Health Insurance cover treatment for yellow fever?

Yes, treatment may be covered if included in the policy terms, especially under this plans that account for vector-borne diseases like yellow fever.

How long does the yellow fever vaccine provide protection?

The yellow fever vaccine offers lifelong protection after a single dose, although some countries may still require proof of vaccination within the last 10 years.

Can yellow fever be transmitted from person to person?

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

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