Yellow Fever

Deadly Diseases and Epidemics

by Brian R. Shmaefsky

Caused by a virus that is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, yellow fever gets its name for the jaundice it causes its victims. This hemorrhagic illness has plagued humans throughout history, and before the development of a yellow fever vaccine, the mortality rate from this disease was high. Tropical nations now prevent epidemic yellow fever levels through vaccination, and travelers to these areas are advised to take precautions. Yellow Fever explores both the historical and epidemiological aspects of this disease. Colorful photographs, maps, and illustrations provide important explanations of various aspects of yellow fever, and information on vaccination, treatment, prevention, and up-to-date statistics on worldwide incidences are provided.

Chapters

118 pages, Library Binding

First published November 1, 2009

About the author

Dr. Brian Shmaefsky is a professor of Environmental Science in Houston, TX and coordinates the college's service learning program. His research emphasis is in environmental physiology. He is also a freelance science and technology writer. Dr. Shmaefsky previously worked as an industrial biochemist at Sigma Chemical Company and was a professor at Northwestern Oklahoma State University and Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. He serves on international organizations and governing boards involved in environmental policy.