Yellow fever

Definition

A viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti, that causes fever, chills, severe headache, back pain, general body aches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and weakness, and can lead to jaundice and severe liver disease.

Etymology

From 'yellow' referencing jaundice and 'fever' indicating the elevated body temperature caused by the disease.

Example

Outbreaks of yellow fever have been historically significant and led to the implementation of mosquito control measures.

Synonyms

• Yellow jack
• Bronze John

Related Terms

• Aedes aegypti
• Mosquito-borne diseases
• Viral infection
• Jaundice

Usage Notes

Yellow fever is a zoonotic disease and can be prevented through vaccination and effective mosquito control programs.