Yellow fever is an acute viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. Symptoms include high fever, kidney failure, low blood pressure and jaundice. Yellow fever is common in the tropical areas of Africa and South America.

The Centers for Disease Control recommend that general precautions be taken to avoid mosquito bites if traveling to areas where the fever is common. These include the use of insect repellent, protective clothing, and mosquito netting.

Proof of administration of the yellow fever vaccine may be required for entry into certain countries in Africa and South America.

Until recently, the vaccine was generally considered one of the safest, as it was associated with few side effects. However, in the summer of 2001 seven severe cases of illness, including six deaths, were reported in people who had received the yellow fever vaccine. Medical professionals with the World Health Organization are investigating the deaths.

See your doctor if you are concerned about the safety of the yellow fever vaccine. If you have suffered from severe adverse side effects after receiving the vaccine, it may be important to contact an attorney who can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there may be time limits within which you must commence suit.



See Also

  1. Vaccines: Overview
  2. Jaundice
  3. Kidney Failure
  4. Low Blood Pressure (hypotension): Overview
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