Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers (VHFs)

Viral haemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) are a group of illnesses caused by viruses that can lead to severe bleeding and organ failure. These diseases are typically spread through contact with infected animals, such as rodents or bats, or through contact with an infected person's bodily fluids.

Types of Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers

• Lassa fever: caused by the Lassa virus, commonly found in West Africa
• Ebola: caused by the Ebola virus, commonly found in Central and West Africa
• Marburg: caused by the Marburg virus, commonly found in Central and East Africa
• Hantavirus: caused by the Hantavirus, commonly found in the Americas and Asia
• Rift Valley fever: caused by the Rift Valley fever virus, commonly found in Africa and the Middle East
• Bolivian haemorrhagic fever: caused by the Machupo virus, commonly found in South America
• Argentine haemorrhagic fever: caused by the Junin virus, commonly found in South America

Symptoms of Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers

The symptoms of VHFs can vary depending on the specific disease, but common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Joint pain
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bleeding or bruising, including:
• Nosebleeds
• Gum bleeding
• Vaginal bleeding
• Blood in stool or urine
• Shock
• Organ failure, including:
• Kidney failure
• Liver failure
• Respiratory failure

Treatments for Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers

The treatment for VHFs typically involves supportive care, such as:

• Fluid replacement to prevent dehydration
• Oxygen therapy to support breathing
• Pain management to control pain and discomfort
• Medications to control bleeding and manage shock
• Antiviral medications, such as:
• Ribavirin for Lassa fever and Hantavirus
• Brincidofovir for Ebola
• Experimental treatments, such as:
• ZMapp for Ebola
• Remdesivir for Ebola and Marburg

Prevention of Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers

To prevent VHFs, it is essential to:

• Avoid contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids
• Wear protective clothing, including gloves and masks, when handling potentially infected materials
• Practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently
• Avoid close contact with people who are infected or suspected to be infected
• Get vaccinated against specific VHFs, such as the Ebola vaccine

Outbreaks and Epidemiology of Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers

VHFs can cause significant outbreaks, particularly in areas with poor healthcare infrastructure. The World Health Organization (WHO) and other global health authorities closely monitor VHFs and provide guidance on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.