Yellow fever continues to be a risk in different regions of the world, as currently, 27 countries in Africa and 13 in Latin America are classified as high-risk areas for outbreaks, while in Argentina, the Ministry of Health recommends vaccination for those traveling to risk areas, especially in the north and northwest of the country, such as Misiones, Formosa, Salta, and Jujuy.
In a report accessed by the Argentine News Agency, it was indicated that every January 27, World Yellow Fever Day is commemorated, a date that recalls the 1871 epidemic in Buenos Aires and focuses on the prevention of a serious viral disease, transmitted by mosquitoes and still a current health threat.
«It is a viral disease that is transmitted exclusively by the bite of mosquitoes of the genera Aedes, Haemagogus, and Sabethes», the report stated.
Initial symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and general weakness. While in most cases, this picture subsides in a few days, around 15% of infected people progress to a severe phase, with recurrent high fever, jaundice, bleeding, and organ failure.
«There is no specific antiviral treatment for yellow fever. The appearance of jaundice indicates severity and usually requires hospitalization,» indicated the clinical physician.
The good news is that yellow fever can be prevented, and Dr. Cantarutti commented:
«There is a safe and effective vaccine, which is administered in a single dose and provides lifelong protection. Informing and preventing continues to be fundamental to care for individual and collective health», concluded the specialist.
«In a context of regional virus circulation and increased travel, timely vaccination remains the most effective tool to prevent severe cases and outbreaks. While it can affect anyone, children and the elderly have a higher risk of developing severe forms,» pointed out the doctor.
Medical care is based on supportive treatment, which includes rest, hydration, and control of complications. It is not transmitted by contact between people or through objects.
The vaccine is free, it is applied once and is available in authorized centers. Adverse effects are infrequent, although in some groups, such as infants under 9 months, people with severe immunodeficiencies, or over 60 years, the indication must be evaluated individually».
