Hemorrhagic Fevers

- Also known as viral hemorrhagic fevers
- All are RNA virusesCDC: Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers
- May present with mild symptomsCDC: Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers
- Some can be fatalCDC: Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers
- Outbreak in South Africa in October 2008 thought to be hemorrhagic Congo FeverAssociated Content: Possible Hemorrhagic Fever Outbreak in Africa (October 10, 2008)

Hemorrhagic fevers are a group of viral infections that cause fever and bleeding. The disease is picked up from an animal or insect host. In severe cases, the bleeding is often visible under the skin and from the body's orifices.CDC: Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers
Symptoms

Hemorrhagic fever symptoms vary depending on the infecting virus. The first symptoms include fatigue, fever, muscle pain and dizziness. In more severe cases, hemorrhagic symptoms appear as bleeding from under the skin and from the mouth, eyes and other orifices. This bleeding can accompanied by low blood pressure. If the disease becomes dangerously severe, affected individuals may suffer coma, shock, seizures or kidney failure.CDC: Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers
Prevention

Prevention of hemorrhagic fever begins with limiting the viral host's access to homes and people. With rodents, preventing them from from entering living spaces and efficiently cleaning of their waste will limit human contact with the virus. For insects, using screens, netting and insect repellent will limit insect bites that could potentially transfer the disease.CDC: Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers eMedicine: Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers
Types
- Lassa Fever
- Rift Valley Fever
- Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
- Marburg
- Ebola
- Yellow Fever
- Dengue Hemorrhagic FevereMedicine: Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers
Disclaimer

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have a hemorrhagic fever, please consult your doctor.