Yellow fever is a type of viral infection that’s transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Some people with yellow fever experience no symptoms, while others may experience mild symptoms similar to the flu (such as fever and body aches). In some cases, the effects of yellow fever can be quite severe and may even be life-threatening.
There is no specific treatment or cure that can address the health effects of yellow fever. Doctors typically recommend supportive care, which can involve bed rest, increased fluid intake, and over-the-counter pain medication.
In the event that yellow fever causes more serious health effects, hospitalization is key. Doctors can monitor patients with yellow fever and take the necessary steps if the condition becomes worse. For instance, doctors can treat dehydration by providing fluids intravenously.
While there’s no cure for yellow fever, vaccinations can prevent infections from occurring in the first place. Vaccinations are effective for the majority of people who receive them. Additionally, one dose of vaccination usually establishes lifelong immunity in people, which means they won’t acquire yellow fever when bitten by an infected mosquito.
Most healthy adults can receive the yellow fever vaccine. However, the vaccine is not usually recommended for people with certain medical conditions, those with weakened immune systems, and infants under six months old. It’s also possible to be allergic to components in the vaccine, which can cause unwanted effects. Check with a doctor if you want to receive a yellow fever vaccine but are concerned about possible risks.