Editor: Kelly Gamboa – TRO Digital
Yellow fever is a disease with a fatality rate of 60%which so far does not have a definitive cure, only therapeutic treatments based on hydration, temperature controls and medications. However, the way to prevent it is through vaccination.
Given the recent increasing numbers of yellow fever cases in Colombia, The International Hospital of Colombia will hold a free vaccination day this Saturday, November 23 from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Floridablanca point, HIC Cardiovascular Institute.
“Yellow fever is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, and its symptoms are similar to those of dengue or flu, including general malaise, headache, muscle and joint pain, accompanied by fever. However, you should go to the emergency room if you experience vomiting, dehydration, confusion, or a feeling of fainting.” Dr. Carlos Solórzano, HIC infectologist, emphasized.
It should be noted that this vaccine It is recommended to apply it from 18 months to 59 yearsbesides that If 10 years have passed since the application, it must be done again.
Given that there are departments with areas of high risk of contagion and the infection occurs mostly in jungle areas, there have been cases in urban areas and Santander has not been the exception, since until now There are 12 municipalities on alert, including Piedecuesta, Floridablanca and Girón, so vaccination is crucial.
Yellow Fever: Don’t Get Bitten by Ignorance!
Editor: Kelly Gamboa – TRO Digital
Yellow fever is a disease with a fatality rate of 60%. Yes, folks, you read that right! Sixty percent! I mean, you have a better chance of winning the lottery than avoiding this grim fate if you’re not vaccinated. And let’s be clear: there are no magic pills here, just hydration, temperature control and maybe a few meds to make you feel a bit less miserable.
Vaccination: Your Best Bet Against Yellow Fever
Now, let’s cut to the chase. Prevention is your best friend when it comes to yellow fever. And thankfully, that prevention comes in the form of a vaccination! Given the recent surge in cases, especially in Colombia, it’s time to roll up those sleeves. This Saturday, November 23rd, the International Hospital of Colombia is holding a free vaccination day at the Floridablanca point, HIC Cardiovascular Institute from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. So, clear your calendars, grab your friends, and go get poked!
Symptoms? More Like Guess What’s Wrong With You!
Now, if you happen to get bitten by one of those pesky mosquitoes (and trust me, they’re not the kind that send you a ‘thank you’ note), you might wonder what symptoms you can look out for. And here comes the fun part: yellow fever’s symptoms can often masquerade as something less sinister, like dengue fever or even the flu! Expect general malaise, headaches, muscle pain, and fever to crash your party. But if you start throwing up, feeling dehydrated, or muddled in thoughts—yeah, that’s your cue to head to the emergency room. Don’t just sit there, get there fast! It’s not the time to play detective!
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The vaccine is a golden ticket for ages 18 months to 59 years. Ah, but wait! If you got vaccinated more than 10 years ago, it’s time to visit the needle again. The vaccine isn’t one of those ‘set it and forget it’ kind of deals. It’s like a great Netflix series; you need to revisit every now and then to stay up-to-date, right?
Location, Location, Location!
Time for a local reality check! While yellow fever primarily sets its sights on the jungle, it’s also been making unwelcome appearances in urban areas. Right now, twelve municipalities, including Piedecuesta, Floridablanca, and Girón, are on guard against this pesky virus. So, dear readers, if you find yourself in one of these areas, the message is clear: get vaccinated!
– Fatality rate of yellow fever: 60%
– Symptoms: malaise, headaches, muscle pain, fever
– Emergency signs: vomiting, dehydration, confusion
– Vaccination recommended every 10 years
Final Thoughts
In a world where diseases seem to rise faster than we can handle them, being proactive about your health is essential! The yellow fever vaccine is a small step that could save your life. So, don’t let ignorance be the reason you miss out on life. Mark your calendar for November 23rd, gather your friends, and let’s beat this disease together, one vaccination at a time! And remember, a mosquito-free life is a happy life!
Stay safe, stay informed, and get vaccinated!
**Interview with Dr. Carlos Solórzano on Yellow Fever Awareness**
**Editor: Kelly Gamboa – TRO Digital**
**KG:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Solórzano. Let’s jump right in. Given the alarming fatality rate of 60% associated with yellow fever, can you explain why vaccination is the most effective prevention strategy?
**Dr. Solórzano:** Absolutely, Kelly. Yellow fever is a serious disease, and the best way to protect against it is through vaccination. While we have some therapeutic treatments available, they are not cures. Vaccination not only prevents infection but also protects communities. It’s crucial, especially with the recent increase in cases in Colombia.
**KG:** Speaking of recent cases, can you tell us more about why the free vaccination day is so important, particularly for areas like Santander?
**Dr. Solórzano:** Certainly. The recent uptick in yellow fever cases in various municipalities, including areas that traditionally might not see such infections, highlights the importance of vaccination for everyone, especially between the ages of 18 months and 59 years. Events like the free vaccination day at the International Hospital of Colombia allow us to reach at-risk populations and enhance community immunity.
**KG:** You mentioned the symptoms of yellow fever can be mistaken for other illnesses. What specific signs should people watch for once they suspect they might have been infected?
**Dr. Solórzano:** Yes, that’s a key point. Symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle and joint pain, and overall malaise. However, if someone experiences severe vomiting, confusion, dehydration, or faintness, they should seek emergency medical care immediately. Recognizing these severe symptoms early can be vital.
**KG:** Lastly, for those who haven’t been vaccinated in the last ten years, what actions should they take?
**Dr. Solórzano:** If it has been ten years since your last vaccination, it’s essential to get a booster shot. Individuals should come to events like our vaccination day and ensure they are properly protected. Vaccination is a crucial step in preventing not only personal infection but also potential outbreaks in the community.
**KG:** Thank you so much for sharing your insights, Dr. Solórzano. It’s clear that awareness and proactive measures like vaccination are key to combating yellow fever.
**Dr. Solórzano:** Thank you for having me, Kelly. Let’s work together to ensure everyone is informed and protected!