Is a viral infection transmitted by the Aedes and jungle mosquitoes. It is endemic only in Africa and South America, but NOT Asia. The yellow fever virus was discovered by Dr. Walter Reed in 1900. The disease is so named because jaundice, the result of liver damage, is a common sign of the illness. Most yellow fever infections are mild and so unrecognized, but severe life-threatening illness occurs in about 15% of patients with very high mortality rates (50% of severe cases) A live virus vaccine is available and highly effective and safe and should be given to all adults living in or traveling to endemic areas. A booster shot is needed every 10 years. This vaccination should be recorded on the "International Certificate of Vaccination” by a certified yellow fever vaccination center. Under international health regulations, countries may require proof of yellow fever vaccination as a condition of entry.