Overview
Yellow fever is a viral infection spread by mosquito bites in parts of Africa and South America. It is not found in India, but travellers to affected regions can catch it, and a vaccination certificate is required for entry to and from those areas. Most cases are mild, but a small number progress to a severe phase with jaundice, bleeding and organ damage. A single vaccine dose gives long-lasting protection.
Symptoms
- Sudden fever and chills
- Severe headache and back pain
- Muscle aches and nausea
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes in severe cases
- Bleeding and dark urine in the severe phase
When to see a doctor
Get vaccinated before travel to affected countries. See a doctor urgently for fever with jaundice or bleeding after such travel.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- Yellow skin and eyes, bleeding from the gums or nose, dark urine or reduced urination after travel — seek hospital care immediately
Causes
The yellow fever virus, spread by infected Aedes and other mosquitoes in endemic regions of Africa and South America.