Yellow fever

Yellow fever (also called yellow jack, black vomit or sometimes American Plague) is an acute viral disease. It is still an important cause of hemorrhagic illness in several African and South American countries despite existence of an effective vaccine. In the past it was a source of several devastating epidemics. As of 2005, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that yellow fever causes 200,000 illnesses and 30,000 deaths every year in unvaccinated populations.

Treatment

There is no specific cure for the disease; therefore vaccination is important. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive only. Fluid replacement, fighting hypotension and transfusion of blood derivates is mostly needed in severe cases. In severe cases resulting in acute renal failure, dialysis may be necessary. A fever victim needs to get lots of rest, fresh air, and drink plenty of fluids.

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