Yellow fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic disease, is also known by several other names, including Yellow Jack, Yellow Plague, and Bronze John.
These alternative names often reflect historical observations of the disease's most striking symptoms or its impact. Yellow fever is an infectious disease characterized by symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle pain, headache, and notably, yellow skin (jaundice), which gives the disease its primary name.
Common Synonyms for Yellow Fever
Here's a breakdown of the recognized alternative names for yellow fever:
| Alternative Name | Description / Context |
|---|---|
| Yellow Jack | A historical term, often associated with the quarantine flag used on ships. |
| Yellow Plague | Emphasizes its historical impact as a widespread and often fatal epidemic. |
| Bronze John | Likely refers to the jaundiced, bronze-like skin discoloration experienced by severe cases. |
Yellow fever is caused by the yellow fever virus, which is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes aegypti species. The disease remains a significant public health concern in tropical and subtropical areas of South America and Africa.
