Definition
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a virus transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. It can result in sudden bleeding from the nose, mouth, ear, stomach etc. Most infections resolve but some can lead to death.
Signs and Symptoms
Initial symptoms of yellow fever include
Sudden fever
Headache
Back pain
Muscle Pain
Jaundice (Yellowness of the eyes and body)
Dark urine
Bleeding (from the nose, ear, mouth and other parts of the body)
Chills
General body aches
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue, and weakness.
Shock and failure of many organs. Roughly 20-50% of people who develop severe illness may die
Prevention
Ensure that you get vaccinated against Yellow Fever. A single dose of Yellow Fever vaccine, which is included in Nigerias routine immunization schedule given at nine-months confers lifelong protection.
Messages
Yellow fever vaccines are safe and free
Use insecticides or insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites
Wear protective clothing to reduce mosquito bites
Sleep under a long-lasting insecticide-treated net
Ensure proper sanitation by getting rid of stagnant water or breeding space for mosquitoes
Health care workers are strongly advised to practice standard universal care precautions while handling patients at all times
Keep/maintain personal and environmental hygiene
Dispose both liquid and solid waste properly
Health workers urged to be alert and maintain a high index of suspicion.
Keep water containers clean and covered
Anyone with any of the above symptoms should report promptly to the nearest health
Risk factors
Mosquito bites
Poor sanitation (mosquitoes breeding sites in the environment)
Treatment
Yellow fever is treatable; report early to the nearest health facility
Supportive care is required