Yellow fever – Brazil
- April 6, 2021
- < 1 min read
A 34-year-old man without a yellow-fever vaccine record in the Information System of the National Immunisation Program (SIPNI) was reported to be the first death case from yellow fever in Águas Mornas, Santa Caterina in Brazil.
There have already been 3 earlier confirmed yellow-fever cases in the state in 2021. Other suspected cases notified by the municipalities of Lages and São Bonifácio are still waiting to be confirmed with laboratory tests.
With regard to epizootics, the state has already received notification of 430 dead or sick non-human primates, with 111 confirmed for yellow fever.
A plan for preventive measures and clinical management of the disease with municipal teams is being set up.
Photo: Electron micro-graph of Yellow Fever Virus.
Yellow fever is a viral disease, of typically short duration, caused by the bite of an infected female mosquito. Only humans and primates can catch the disease. In most cases infection will be accompanied by fever, chills and loss of appetite. Muscle pains and headaches are also typical symptoms that improve within 5 days.
In about 15% of people, within a day of improving the fever comes back, abdominal pain occurs, and liver damage begins causing yellow skin. Death occurs in up to half of those who get severe disease.
A safe and effective vaccine against yellow fever exists, and some countries require vaccinations for travelers.
The disease originated in Africa and spread to South America in the 17th century with the Spanish and Portuguese importation of enslaved Africans from sub-Saharan Africa. Since the 17th century, several major outbreaks of the disease have occurred in the Americas, Africa, and Europe. In the 18th and 19th centuries, yellow fever was considered one of the most dangerous infectious diseases.
In 1927, yellow fever virus was the first human virus to be isolated.
Follow us
While you are here, help us with
Access to Essential Drugs
One third of children, women and men have no access to essential medicines, putting lives at risk. Hospitals frequently run out of medicines and other essential supplies. Our Med-Aid program connects hospitals with aid and ensures that they receive exactly what they need.
Access to Diagnostics
Much of today’s innovation is either not reaching or not suitable for people in developing countries.
Data to Improve Health
Faster and reactive systems to help provide lifesaving support to vulnerable communities.
Support our work. It only takes a minute but makes a world of difference!
With your help we can bring modern diagnostics and essential medicines to people in need, track disease outbreaks better and help prevent future pandemics.
You may also be interested these articles
