Yellow fever

Yellow fever is a zoonotic disease (diseases spread from animals to people) caused by a virus. Yellow fever is found in tropical or subtropical areas of Africa, Central and South America. In Canada, yellow fever is found in persons who have travelled to areas of the world where this disease is present. 

Yellow fever is diagnosed by symptoms, history of exposure and laboratory testing.

Symptoms usually occur within three to six days of exposure. Initial symptoms include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, nausea and vomiting. Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes) usually develops and may progress during the disease. In severe cases, hemorrhaging (gum bleeding, blood in vomit and stool), kidney and liver failure can occur. 

Yellow fever is usually transmitted to people by being bitten by a female mosquito that has been infected after biting other people with the disease. 

People living or travelling in areas of the world where yellow fever is present may become infected.

If necessary, supportive care and medications can be used to treat yellow fever.

Health-care providers and laboratories must report cases of yellow fever to Public Health. Public Health staff may interview the health-care provider and patient (or caregivers) to find out how the infection occurred, identify other people at risk of infection, implement control measures and provide other advice.

Yellow fever vaccination is available for travellers. Before you travel, seek advice from your health-care provider at least one month before your departure.

To prevent mosquito bites:

• use an insect repellent containing DEET
• wear light-coloured clothing and long sleeves, pants and socks
• sleep in places with screened windows
• use mosquito netting containing insect repellent
• tuck mosquito netting under mattresses before nightfall

For additional information, contact your health-care provider, local Public Health office or Tele-Care 811.