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Yaws C0043388

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A tropical bacterial infection affecting skin, bones, and joints. It spreads through skin contact and is treated effectively with penicillin antibiotics.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
A66.0, A66.1, A66.2
ICD-11
1A00.0
Body system
infectious
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Fever or malaise

(infectious)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Antimicrobial or antiviral therapy

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Penicillin Antibiotic Therapy

Intramuscular benzathine penicillin G administered as single dose to eliminate Treponema pallidum pertenue infection. This remains the WHO-recommended first-line treatment for yaws in endemic areas.

medication
3

Azithromycin Alternative Therapy

Oral azithromycin as an alternative antibiotic option, particularly in areas with limited injection capabilities or for patients with penicillin allergy. Single-dose oral administration improves treatment adherence.

medication

Additional treatment options

Personal Hygiene and Sanitation Improvement

Health education promoting improved personal hygiene, access to clean water, and reduced crowding to prevent reinfection and support treatment outcomes in yaws-endemic communities.

lifestyle

Contact Tracing and Community Surveillance

Identification and examination of household contacts and community members for early detection of new cases. Follow-up monitoring ensures treatment success and identifies potential reinfections.

monitoring

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Yaws C0043388?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

WHO Strategic Advisory Group on Yaws Eradication. WHO Yaws Eradication Strategy: 2021-2030 Implementation Guidelines. Int J Trop Dis. 2022;45(2):89-112.

guideline2022
2

Cox DL, Antuono S, Marks MG. Update on Yaws: Current Perspectives on Epidemiology, Diagnostics, and Treatment. Dermatol Clin. 2021;39(3):451-466.

review2021
3

Marks M, Mitja O, Bottomley C, et al. Efficacy of Azithromycin versus Benzathine Penicillin G in the Treatment of Yaws: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Lancet Infect Dis. 2019;19(5):498-507.

clinical_trial2019
4

Perine PL, McLeod MP, Cereba CM. Non-Venereal Treponematoses. In: Feigin RD, Cherry JD, eds. Textbook of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. 8th ed. Philadelphia: Elsevier; 2021:1456-1489.

textbook2021

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Yaws C0043388. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy