The symptoms of yellow fever, scientifically known as hookworm, usually first appear on the itchy, reddened skin where the worm entered the body. However, when they reach the gut, worms can also generate other symptoms such as:
- Constant abdominal pain;
- Excessive cramps;
- Nausea and vomiting;
- Persistent low fever;
- Loss of appetite;
- Presence of blood in the stool.
In addition, it is also very common for the skin to have a more yellowish color, which ends up contributing to the name "yellowing" of the disease. In some people, if the number of worms is very low, there may be no symptoms at all or it may take longer to appear.
Yellow fever in the newborn is a symptom of another disease called neonatal jaundice, which has no relation to this disease. See more on why the newborn's skin turns yellow, and what to do.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The best way to confirm the diagnosis of yellow fever is to do a fecal examination, to evaluate in the laboratory if there are worms or eggs present in the faeces.
See how the stool exam is done and how to collect it at home.
How to get yellowed
Worms that cause yellowing can enter the skin when walking barefoot in places contaminated by larvae or eggs due to the presence of faeces and dogs or cats. After entering the skin, the parasite moves through the blood to the lungs, where, through coughing, it can reach the mouth and be swallowed. After being swallowed, the parasite travels to the intestine, where it grows and reproduces.
How to avoid picking yellow
To reduce the chances of being infected with yellowworms you should:
- Walking whenever possible, especially outside the home;
- Avoid touching the ground without gloves.
- Wash hands before eating or before and after going to the bathroom;
- Do not drink or eat any food unfit for consumption, especially if you have been around animals.
These measures help protect the individual by preventing the onset of the disease.
