Viral hemorrhagic fever

Viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) refers to a group of illnesses that are caused by several distinct families of viruses. In general, the term "viral hemorrhagic fever" is used to describe a severe multisystem syndrome (multisystem in that multiple organ systems in the body are affected). Characteristically, the overall vascular system is damaged, and the body's ability to regulate itself is impaired. These symptoms are often accompanied by hemorrhage (bleeding); however, the bleeding is itself rarely life-threatening. While some types of hemorrhagic fever viruses can cause relatively mild illnesses, many of these viruses cause severe, life-threatening disease.

Causes

Viral hemorrhagic fevers are caused by viruses from four families: Arenaviridae, Filoviridae, Bunyaviridae, and Flaviviridae. Each of these families share a number of features:

• They are all RNA viruses, and all are covered, or enveloped, in a fatty (lipid) coating.
• Their survival is dependent on an animal or insect host, called the natural reservoir.
• Except for the Arenaviruses, they are all arthropod-borne viruses.

Symptoms

The symptoms of viral hemorrhagic fever begin with fever and muscle aches and can result in severe bleeding, organ failure, and death. The severity of symptoms depends on the type of virus, with some causing mild illness and others causing severe disease.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for viral hemorrhagic fever. Patients receive supportive care to help manage symptoms, and in severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

Prevention

Prevention of viral hemorrhagic fever involves avoiding contact with infected animals or insects and taking precautions to prevent infection if exposure is unavoidable.

See also

• Ebola virus disease
• Dengue fever
• Yellow fever
• Rift Valley fever
• Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome
• Lassa fever
• Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever

References

Viral hemorrhagic fever Resources
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