Yellow fever

What is it ?

Yellow fever is transmitted by a mosquito and caused by a pathogen known as “yellow fever virus” or “amarillic virus.” It develops in two phases: “acute” and “toxic”

In the first of these phases, the symptoms generally recede after 3 or 4 days. However, in about 15% of cases, the disease will develop into a second phase that is much more virulent and dangerous.

Disease transmission

Certain types of mosquitoes are carriers and their bites transmit the disease.

Geographic risk zone

Africa, South America

Yellow fever, countries or areas at risk

Data source: World Health Organization

South America :

Argentina
Bolivia
Brésil
Colombie
Équateur
Pérou
Venezuela

Symptoms description

Acute phase:

Sudden onset of high fever
Muscle pain concentrated in the back
Headache
Chills
Gastrointestinal symptoms

Toxic phase:

Fever appearing within 24 hours
Damage to the liver, apparent in yellowish appearance of the skin (jaundice)
In some cases, hemorrhaging in the mouth, skin, eyes and stomach

Health impact

Risks

Roughly 200,000 cases of yellow fever are reported annually worldwide.
Of those 200,000 infected by the virus, 30,000 will not survive.
The mortality rate for yellow fever can be as high as 30%.
Yellow fever is present in 33 African and 9 South American countries.
50% cases of hemorrhaging in the toxic phase result in death within 10 to 14 days after these symptoms appear.

Prevention

Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself against yellow fever. The vaccine can be administered without danger from the age of 9 months (WHO). Please note that many countries require you to show a vaccination certificate upon arrival at customs and immigration. Other preventive measures, such as the use of an effective mosquito repellent, may be adopted to minimize your chances of contracting this disease.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that all travellers consult a travel health specialist before they go abroad. Your specialist will be able to advise you about various resources and options available so you can protect yourself effectively.

The Clinique Santé-voyage de la Fondation du CHUM is licensed to administer the yellow fever vaccine.

Vaccination : yellow fever

Yes

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Recommended products

Mosquito repellent, mosquito netting impregnated with deltamethrin

Travel Boutique

Nota Bene

Yellow fever gets its name from the yellowish colour that can be observed in some infected patients.
Only a small percentage of yellow fever cases are reported worldwide. The reality could be much more alarming than it appears at present.