Emma Sutherland - US yellow fever vaccine supply will run out this summer

SUMMARY:
          Yellow fever, a potentially deadly disease transmitted through infected mosquitos, is widespread in tropical areas in over 47 countries in Africa and Central and South America. Although not present in North America, the yellow fever vaccine is expected to run out by this upcoming summer. However, scientists say that they hope to have it again by mid-2018. This may not seem like a big deal for those of us not affected by this disease, but it interrupts many people's traveling plans. If it is recommended by doctors to get the vaccine for where you are going, it's crucial to get it. According to most doctors, if you cannot get a vaccine for your trip, it is most likely better to just stay home. In fact, over 18 countries require travelers to have the vaccine before leaving the country. Yellow fever begins after being bitten by an infected mosquito, and takes about three to four days until it begins to affect you. From then, many experience a fever, headache, jaundice, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Nearly half die within ten days of these symptoms.

ANALYSIS:
         Before reading this article, I had been aware of yellow fever. A few years ago, I read a fictional novel about the disease and how it spread throughout multiple societies and civilizations. It seems very dangerous and risky to have the vaccine unavailable for an entire year! Travelers will take huge risks going to the respective areas dealing with this infection. Not having the vaccination available may have implications for tourism as people will not feel safe visiting these areas. This article is from CNN, a very reliable news network, updating us on the most current news. This synthesizes to the yellow fever epidemic of 1793. Over 5,000 civilians died within the period of August 1st to November 9th. I hope that an epidemic this large does not have the potential to arise again, especially with the vaccine out of reach.


http://www.cnn.com/2017/04/28/health/yellow-fever-vaccine-shortage/index.html