Effects of yellow fever

Yellow fever is spread by infected mosquitoes, usually in parts of sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America. Early illness can resemble other infections, with fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting or marked tiredness. Some people improve, while others develop a more dangerous phase after a brief improvement. Yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, abdominal pain, bleeding, confusion or reduced urine can indicate liver, kidney or other organ involvement.

If you develop fever during travel or after returning from an area where yellow fever occurs, seek medical advice promptly and mention your destinations, dates and mosquito exposure. Rest, drink fluids if able, and ask before taking medicines because some products may increase bleeding risk or affect the liver. Prevent further bites with long clothing, insect repellent and screened or air-conditioned rooms. Vaccination is the main preventive measure for eligible travellers; discuss it before departure.

Go to urgent care immediately for yellow skin or eyes, confusion, unusual bleeding, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, breathing difficulty, fainting or very little urine. Do not wait for symptoms to become severe after a relevant exposure. Tell the service about travel history so serious mosquito-borne infections can be considered and tested appropriately.

Ask whether your destination carries yellow-fever risk, whether vaccination is suitable for your health and itinerary, how early it should be arranged, and what documents may be required. If you are unwell, ask which tests are needed and which fever medicines are appropriate.