Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) refer 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.
1. What are the symptoms of viral hemorrhagic
fever illnesses?
Specific signs and symptoms vary by the type of VHF,
but initial signs and symptoms often include marked fever, fatigue, dizziness, muscle
aches, loss of strength, and exhaustion. Patients with severe cases of VHF often
show signs of bleeding under the skin, in internal organs, or from body orifices
like the mouth, eyes, or ears. However, although they may bleed from many sites
around the body, patients rarely die because of blood loss. Severely ill patient
cases may also show shock, nervous system malfunction, coma, delirium, and seizures.
Some types of VHF are associated with renal (kidney) failure.
2. How are patients with viral hemorrhagic
fever treated?
Patients receive supportive therapy, but generally
speaking, there is no other treatment or established cure for VHFs. Ribavirin, an
anti-viral drug, has been effective in treating some individuals with Lassa fever
or HFRS. Treatment with convalescent-phase plasma has been used with success in
some patients with Argentine hemorrhagic fever.
3. What needs to be done to address the threat
of viral hemorrhagic fevers?
Scientists and researchers are challenged with developing
containment, treatment, and vaccine strategies for these diseases. Another goal
is to develop immunologic and molecular tools for more rapid disease diagnosis,
and to study how the viruses are transmitted and exactly how the disease affects
the body (pathogenesis). A third goal is to understand the ecology of these viruses
and their hosts in order to offer preventive public health advice for avoiding infection.
CDC Website on Viral Hemmoragic Fevers