Yellow fever in Western Equatoria state, South Sudan
The South Sudan Ministry of Health (MOH) has reported a total of 20 yellow fever cases (1 confirmed, 19 suspected) in Western Equatoria state since the beginning of the year.
The cases were reported from three counties—Yambio (13), Nzara (4) and Tambura (3). Five fatalities have also been reported (25% CFR).
Yellow fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic fever, which is spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes.
Symptoms of yellow fever (fever, chills, headache, backache, and muscle aches) develop 3-6 days after infection. About 15% of people infected with yellow fever virus will develop severe illness that can lead to liver disease, bleeding, shock, organ failure, yellowing skin (jaundice), and sometimes death.
Diagnosis is based on symptoms and laboratory testing. Yellow fever virus spreads through the bites of infected mosquitoes.
There are no medications to treat or cure yellow fever. Yellow fever vaccine is the best protection against this disease.