Yellow Fever

What is yellow fever?

Yellow fever is a viral disease carried by certain mosquitoes. It is not present in the United States. However, it is common in areas of Africa and South America, particularly in jungles where wild monkeys reside.

Who gets yellow fever?

Yellow fever affects people who live in or travel to tropical and subtropical areas. It rarely causes illness in U.S. travelers to these regions.

How is yellow fever spread?

The virus spreads when an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito bites someone in urban areas. Other mosquito species can spread it in jungle areas. Mosquitoes catch the virus by feeding on infected primates. If an uninfected mosquito bites a person with yellow fever in the first five days, it may also become infected. Then, it can transmit the virus to others. Yellow fever does not spread directly between people.

What are the symptoms of yellow fever?

Symptoms include fever, chills, severe headache, back pain, body aches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and weakness. Most people recover after these initial symptoms. However, some cases can become severe. Serious symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), high fever, and bleeding, especially in the gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to shock and organ failure, which may result in death.

How soon after exposure do symptoms appear?

The symptoms appear from three to six days after an infectious mosquito bite.

Does past infection with yellow fever make a person immune?

Yes, people who have had yellow fever will not get the disease again.

How is yellow fever diagnosed?

Doctors can confirm the disease with a blood test or other lab tests.

What is the treatment for yellow fever?

There is no specific treatment for yellow fever. Care focuses on relieving symptoms. Patients who develop more serious symptoms should be hospitalized for close observation and supportive treatment. Avoid medications like aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as they can increase bleeding risk.

Do people who have been in contact with someone with yellow fever need to be tested?

Contacts of individuals with yellow fever should be tested if they have had similar exposures, similar travel, and are symptomatic.

How can yellow fever be prevented?

Key prevention methods are vaccination, mosquito control, and treated bed nets if sleeping outside. Travelers should get vaccinated before their trip. Health authorities recommend the vaccine for anyone nine months or older visiting at-risk areas in South America and Africa. Some people should avoid the vaccine, so talk to your healthcare provider before traveling to see if it's safe for you.

In yellow fever areas, use strong insect repellent on exposed skin. Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks. Spraying clothes with permethrin adds extra protection. Staying in places with screens, air conditioning, or bed nets also reduces the risk of mosquito bites.

Where can I obtain yellow fever vaccine?

A list of clinics in Virginia where yellow fever vaccine can be obtained is located at the VDH Division of Immunization's page on international travel and at  vdh.virginia.gov/immunization/international/.

How can I get more information about yellow fever?

• If you have concerns about yellow fever, contact your healthcare provider.
• Call your local health department. You can find your local health department at vdh.virginia.gov/health-department-locator/.
• Visit the CDC page on yellow fever at cdc.gov/yellow-fever/ for more information.