Yellow fever

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a virus that is carried and spread by a specific type of mosquito. When an infected mosquito bites you, the virus enters your bloodstream and travels to your internal organs, particularly targeting your liver and kidneys. This is why the condition often leads to jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin and the whites of your eyes.

While many people only experience mild symptoms that go away on their own, some individuals develop a much more severe form of the disease. Because this illness can progress quickly, it is important to understand how it spreads and why protecting yourself from mosquito bites is the best way to stay healthy.