There's no specific antiviral treatment for yellow fever. However, the symptoms can be treated.
For example, a high temperature (fever) can be treated using paracetamol or ibuprofen. These can also be used to control symptoms such as:
- headaches
- back pain
- muscle pain
See the Health A-Z topics about paracetamol and ibuprofen for more information. Children under 16 shouldn't take aspirin.
You should also make sure that you're drinking enough fluids to avoid dehydration.
Treatment in hospital
If your symptoms are severe, you may be admitted to hospital so that you can be monitored and receive supportive nursing care. Additional treatment may be necessary, including:
- a ventilator to help you breathe
- a transfusion of red blood cells to replace those lost through bleeding
- a machine to filter your blood if your kidneys are no longer working (dialysis)
