Brazil has seen several outbreaks of yellow fever in recent years. In 2016, the country saw an unprecedented spread of the disease with more than 1,500 confirmed cases and over 400 deaths. The outbreak was largely due to a combination of increasing deforestation, human encroachment on wild areas, and climate change.
The mosquitoes carrying the yellow fever virus are most likely to be found in the Amazon rainforest, and due to deforestation, they have been able to spread beyond the forest and further into Brazil's cities. This has put more people at risk of yellow fever and can lead to much larger outbreaks.
In addition to human activities, climate change is also playing a role in spreading yellow fever in Brazil. Warmer temperatures can increase mosquito biting rates, leading to more yellow fever cases. Combined with increasing deforestation, this has made it much easier for yellow fever to spread across Brazil.
Brazil is taking action against yellow fever by launching an immunization campaign and introducing new policies aimed at preventing further deforestation. However, deforestation levels remain high and without significant changes in policy or wider public awareness, yellow fever is likely to remain a problem in Brazil for years to come.
Prevention Against Yellow Fever
Yellow fever, a menace that has been plaguing various parts of the world such as along the Amazon basin, can be averted with the right knowledge and precautions.
Let's delve into the key points that equip us in this fight:
Recognize the Signs and Symptoms: Knowledge is power. The early symptoms of yellow fever can often be mistaken for a common flu. It starts with fever, chills, a severe headache, back pain, body aches, nausea, and vomiting.
Prevent Mosquito Bites: To protect yourself, consider the time of day. Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, so it's best to stay indoors during these hours.
Use DEET Repellants: DEET, an active ingredient in many insect repellants, is a reliable ally in warding off mosquitoes. However, when using products with DEET, precaution is key. Concentrations over 30% should not be used on children or pregnant women due to potential skin irritation.
Get Vaccinated: Vaccination is our strongest weapon against yellow fever. The YF-VAX, available in the U.S., is a preventive measure that is especially important for those traveling to endemic areas. Don't take the risk; get vaccinated.
Get Your Yellow Fever Vaccine Now!
Make an appointment at one of Away Clinic's Arizona locations to get the yellow fever vaccine. The yellow card you receive with vaccination is valid for the rest of your life and can be used to enter numerous countries requiring proof of vaccination to enter.
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