Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes in parts of Africa and South America. Vaccination is safe and effective and is a legal requirement for people travelling through infected areas. Avoiding mosquito bites is also recommended to reduce the risk of catching yellow fever or other mosquito-borne diseases.
The symptoms of yellow fever
The first symptoms of yellow fever appear three to six days after exposure to the virus. They include:
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Flushed face
- Constipation
- Stomach ache
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Restlessness and irritability.
Mild cases of yellow fever end with the above symptoms. In severe cases, there may be a remission from these symptoms for several hours or days. The fever then returns and the patient develops the classic symptoms of jaundice (yellow eyes and skin) and black, ‘coffee-ground’ vomit. This can be followed by coma and death within days.
Requirements and risks of vaccination
Yellow fever vaccine is safe and effective and lasts for 10 years. The vaccine, however, has some strict requirements. It should not be given to people who are:
- Allergic to eggs or neomycin.
- Immune-deficient.
- Pregnant.
- Under nine months of age - it should only be given to younger infants and pregnant women in unavoidable, high risk circumstances.
Reactions to the vaccine are generally mild and may include fever, headache and muscle ache which occur five to 14 days after immunisation. Serious side effects are rare, but any problems should be immediately referred to a doctor.and mostly in the joint replacement hospitals is available.
Reference : http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Travel_health_...
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