May also be called: YF Yellow fever is a viral disease that a person can get from being bitten by an infected mosquito. More to Know Yellow fever is caused by a virus carried by mosquitoes. Someone bitten by an infected mosquito might develop symptoms 3-6 days later, but most people don't get sick or have only mild symptoms. If someone does develop symptoms, these can include fever, chills, headache, vomiting, and jaundice (a condition that turns the skin yellow — hence the disease's name). Symptoms often go away after 3-4 days. At that point, most people with yellow fever recover completely. In about 15% of cases, the person may become sick again within a day or two. This stage of the disease can lead to seizures, organ failure, and internal bleeding. While rare, a case of yellow fever in this stage is a serious life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Keep in Mind Yellow fever usually is found only in tropical areas of Africa and South America. Very few cases happen in the United States. There is no cure for yellow fever, but there is an effective vaccination that travelers can get before going to areas where the disease is common. All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts. Back to Articles Related Articles Malaria Malaria - a common infection in hot, tropical areas - is a leading cause of death worldwide. But if diagnosed early and treated, it can be cured. Read More Dengue Fever You're not at risk of this illness in the U.S., but if you live in or are traveling to a tropical country it's wise to take precautions against this virus. Read More Dengue Fever This infectious disease can cause high fevers, headaches, rashes, and pain throughout the body. Find out what to do about dengue fever - and how to avoid it. Read More Do My Kids Need Vaccines Before Traveling? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More West Nile Virus The threat of West Nile virus has made getting a mosquito bite a cause for concern. What is West Nile virus, and what can you do to prevent it? Read More Staying Healthy While You Travel When you're traveling with your kids, there's a chance that someone might get sick. But early planning and smart packing can help ensure your family stays healthy and safe. Read More Bug Bites and Stings Generally, insect bites and stings are harmless. Find out how to keep pests from ruining your fun. Read More Hey! A Mosquito Bit Me! There are thousands of different kinds of mosquitoes in many different sizes and colors. Learn all about mosquitoes and how they bite you in this article. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.