There is tension in Enugu following the report of strange killer disease believed to be yellow fever virus. The affected local government areas include Igbo-Eze North, Isi-Uzo, and Igbo-Etiti LGAs.
✓ How yellow fever is transmitted
The virus is transmitted by mosquitoes, animals and insects. When transmitted to humans, the virus can damage the liver and other internal organs, and can be fatal.
People cannot spread yellow fever virus among themselves through casual contact. Although, the virus could possibly be transmitted directly into the blood through contaminated sharp objects.
✓ Symptoms
*Fever,
*Yellowing of the skin
*Headache,
*Nausea and vomiting.
*Serious cases may cause fatal heart, liver and kidney conditions. The yellowing of skin occurs because the disease causes liver damage (hepatitis).
✓ Treatment
There is no cure. So, treatment is usually symptomatic; that is easing symptoms such as fever, headache, dehydration, etc. Due to the risk of internal bleeding, avoid treatment with aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs if you suspect you have yellow fever.
✓ Prevention (vaccination)
Since there is no cure for yellow fever disease, prevention is very important. There is a yellow fever vaccine for adults and children over age of 9 months.
✓ Who should not take yellow fever vaccine
Yellow fever prevention vaccine is not for everyone, the categories of people below should stay away from the vaccine;
- HIV patients
- Those who have cancer
- Have had treatment that can disrupt the immune system, such as steroids or cancer treatment
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Adults, 65 years and above
- Children less than 9 months old.