Yellow fever is an infectious disease caused by an Arbovirus of the Flavivirus genus. Its incidence is restricted to Central America, South America and Africa.
Transmission occurs through the bite of previously contaminated mosquitoes, when they suck the blood of an affected individual. In cities, the responsible is the Aedes aegypti; and in forest environments, those of the Haemagogus and Sabethes genera. The incubation period, that is, the time between the bite and the onset of symptoms, is approximately three days.
In some people there is no onset of symptoms; while in others, the picture is quite serious. Fever, nausea, headache and muscle pain are associated with yellowing of the patient's skin and eyes. Bleeding, both internal and external, can also manifest.
Its symptoms last, on average, ten days. In these more severe cases, in addition to the picture described, there is involvement of the kidneys, which can cause heart, lung and liver problems; and death in 50% of cases.
Diagnosis is made by analyzing symptoms and testing. In some cases, additional laboratory tests are required to determine whether or not there are complications or impairment of vital organs and/or functions.
There is no specific treatment for yellow fever and, therefore, medical procedures focus on controlling symptoms and preventing complications. Rest, abundant water intake, good nutrition and, in case of bleeding, blood replacement, are important measures. After healing, there is no risk of reinfection.
The best way to avoid yellow fever is through vaccination, available free of charge at health centers and from the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa), at ports and airports. It is recommended for individuals nine months of age or older and should be reinforced every ten years.
Mosquito Control Aedes aegypti it is another effective measure, having the advantage of also preventing dengue. For people whose immunization through the vaccine is not recommended (pregnant women, immunocompromised, etc.), the use of good repellents, long-sleeved shirts, pants, socks and gloves – when visiting susceptible areas – is a good measure of prevention.
IMPORTANT: As with dengue, the use of aspirin or other drugs containing acetylsalicylic acid is contraindicated.
THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH WARNS:
Self-medication can have unwanted and unanticipated effects, as the wrong medicine not only does not cure, it can worsen your health.
By Mariana Araguaia
Graduated in Biology