How can parents effectively manage viral fever symptoms in children. What are the key differences between viral and bacterial infections. When should parents seek medical attention for a child’s fever. How can antibiotics impact viral infections in children.

Understanding Viral Fever in Children: Causes and Symptoms

Viral fever is a common occurrence in children, typically resulting from infections caused by various viruses. These microscopic pathogens spread easily from person to person, triggering the body’s immune response. As the immune system fights off the invading virus, it often raises the body’s temperature, leading to a fever.

A fever is generally defined as a body temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. In children, normal body temperature usually hovers around 98.6°F (37°C), so any increase of 1 degree or more above this baseline is considered a fever. The duration of a viral fever can vary, lasting anywhere from a couple of days to a week or longer, depending on the specific virus causing the infection.

Common Symptoms of Viral Fever in Children

• Elevated body temperature
• Fatigue and weakness
• Body aches and pains
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Cough or sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Occasional nausea or vomiting

It’s important to note that symptoms can vary depending on the specific virus causing the infection and the child’s individual response to it.

Viral vs. Bacterial Infections: Key Differences and Treatment Approaches

While viral and bacterial infections can present similar symptoms, there are crucial differences in their underlying causes and treatment methods. Dr. Nipunie Rajapakse, a pediatric infectious diseases specialist at Mayo Clinic’s Children’s Center, emphasizes the importance of understanding these distinctions to ensure appropriate care for children.

Viral Infections

Viral infections are caused by viruses, which are tiny microorganisms that invade and replicate within the body’s cells. Common examples include colds, flu, and many cases of sore throats. Viral infections generally do not respond to antibiotics and must be fought off by the body’s immune system.

Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections, on the other hand, are caused by bacteria – single-celled microorganisms that can survive and multiply on their own. Examples include strep throat, some types of pneumonia, and urinary tract infections. Unlike viral infections, bacterial infections can often be effectively treated with antibiotics.

Do antibiotics help in treating viral infections? No, antibiotics are not effective against viruses. Dr. Rajapakse emphasizes that giving a child with a viral infection an antibiotic does not help them get better faster and can potentially cause harm. This misconception is one that healthcare professionals frequently need to address with parents.

The Dangers of Antibiotic Overuse in Children

The indiscriminate use of antibiotics, especially in cases of viral infections, poses significant risks to both individual and public health. Dr. Rajapakse highlights the growing concern of antibiotic resistance, which occurs when bacteria evolve to withstand the effects of antibiotics.

Why is antibiotic resistance a serious concern? Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are becoming increasingly difficult to treat, potentially leading to more severe and prolonged infections. This trend is particularly alarming in the context of serious bacterial infections, where antibiotics can be lifesaving.

To preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for treating serious bacterial infections, it’s crucial to use them judiciously and only when necessary. Dr. Rajapakse emphasizes that antibiotics should be reserved for confirmed bacterial infections such as pneumonia, blood infections, or bone infections, where they can make a significant difference in patient outcomes.

Managing Viral Fever Symptoms in Children: Practical Tips for Parents

While viral infections must run their course, there are several strategies parents can employ to help manage their child’s symptoms and promote comfort during recovery.

1. Fever Reduction

Over-the-counter fever-reducing medications can help alleviate discomfort associated with fever. The two most common options for children are:

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)

Always follow the dosage instructions provided on the packaging or by your healthcare provider, and never give aspirin to children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.

2. Hydration

Ensuring adequate fluid intake is crucial during a viral fever. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water, clear broths, or electrolyte solutions designed for children. For infants, continue breastfeeding or formula feeding as usual, offering more frequent feeds if needed.

3. Rest

Adequate rest is essential for the body to fight off the viral infection effectively. Encourage your child to get plenty of sleep and limit strenuous activities until they’ve recovered.

4. Comfort Measures

Simple comfort measures can help alleviate symptoms and promote relaxation:

• Dress your child in light, breathable clothing
• Keep the room temperature comfortable (not too hot or cold)
• Use a cool, damp cloth on the forehead to provide relief
• Offer popsicles or ice chips to soothe a sore throat and promote hydration

When to Seek Medical Attention for a Child’s Fever

While most viral fevers in children resolve on their own, there are instances where medical attention is necessary. Understanding when to consult a healthcare provider is crucial for ensuring your child’s well-being.

Age-Based Guidelines for Seeking Medical Care

The age of your child plays a significant role in determining when to seek medical attention for a fever. Here are some general guidelines:

• Infants 0-3 months: Seek immediate medical care if the rectal temperature is 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
• Infants 3-6 months: Contact a doctor if the rectal temperature is above 102°F (39°C) and the child appears irritable or unusually sleepy.
• Children 6-24 months: Consult a healthcare provider if the rectal temperature exceeds 102°F (39°C).

For older children, the decision to seek medical care often depends on other symptoms and the child’s overall condition rather than just the temperature alone.

Other Warning Signs

Regardless of age, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention:

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Bluish skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids or signs of dehydration
• Persistent vomiting
• Seizures
• Unusual drowsiness or difficulty waking
• Severe headache or neck stiffness
• Unexplained rash
• Signs of ear or throat pain

How can parents accurately measure their child’s temperature? The most accurate method for infants and young children is a rectal temperature reading. For older children, oral or tympanic (ear) thermometers can be used. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and cleaning of thermometers.

Preventing the Spread of Viral Infections in Children

While it’s not always possible to prevent viral infections, there are several strategies parents can employ to reduce the risk of their children contracting or spreading these illnesses.

1. Hand Hygiene

Proper hand washing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of viruses. Teach children to wash their hands frequently, especially:

• Before eating
• After using the bathroom
• After blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing
• After touching shared surfaces in public places

Encourage the use of soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available.

2. Respiratory Etiquette

Teach children to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and to dispose of used tissues immediately. If a tissue isn’t available, they should cough or sneeze into their elbow rather than their hands.

3. Avoid Close Contact with Sick Individuals

When possible, keep children away from people who are sick. If a family member is ill, try to limit close contact and avoid sharing personal items like towels or utensils.

4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

A strong immune system can help fight off viral infections. Encourage habits that support overall health:

• Ensure children get adequate sleep
• Provide a balanced, nutritious diet
• Encourage regular physical activity
• Manage stress levels

5. Vaccination

Stay up-to-date with recommended vaccinations, including the annual flu shot. While not all viral infections can be prevented through vaccination, immunizations can protect against many serious viral illnesses.

How effective are these prevention strategies? While no method is 100% foolproof, consistently practicing these preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of viral infections in children.

The Role of Nutrition in Supporting Children’s Immune System During Viral Infections

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting a child’s immune system, especially during viral infections. While no specific food can cure a viral fever, a balanced diet can help the body fight off infections more effectively and potentially speed up recovery.

Key Nutrients for Immune Support

Several nutrients are particularly important for maintaining a strong immune system:

• Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, berries, and leafy green vegetables
• Vitamin D: Obtained through sunlight exposure and fortified foods
• Zinc: Present in lean meats, seafood, and whole grains
• Protein: Essential for building and repairing body tissues
• Probiotics: Found in yogurt and other fermented foods, support gut health

What foods should parents offer children during a viral fever? Focus on easily digestible, nutrient-dense options such as:

1. Clear broths or soups
2. Fresh fruits and vegetables
3. Lean proteins (if the child has an appetite)
4. Whole grains
5. Yogurt or kefir (if dairy is tolerated)

It’s important to remember that appetite may be reduced during illness. Encourage small, frequent meals or snacks rather than large portions. Always prioritize hydration, offering water, herbal teas, or clear broths regularly.

Foods to Avoid

During a viral fever, it’s best to avoid certain foods that may exacerbate symptoms or be difficult to digest:

• Fatty or greasy foods
• Spicy dishes
• Caffeine
• Sugary snacks or beverages

Can specific foods or supplements boost the immune system to fight viral infections faster? While a balanced diet is important for overall health and immune function, no single food or supplement has been proven to significantly accelerate recovery from viral infections. The best approach is to focus on a varied, nutrient-rich diet and adequate hydration.

The Impact of Viral Fevers on Children’s Daily Activities and School Attendance

Viral fevers can significantly disrupt a child’s daily routine, including their ability to attend school or participate in extracurricular activities. Understanding how to manage these disruptions and when it’s appropriate for a child to return to their normal schedule is crucial for both the child’s recovery and preventing the spread of illness to others.

When to Keep a Child Home from School

Generally, children should stay home from school or daycare when they have a fever. This typically means a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Other reasons to keep a child home include:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Severe cough or difficulty breathing
• Extreme fatigue or inability to concentrate
• Contagious rashes

How long should a child stay home after a viral fever? Most schools and daycares require that a child be fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications before returning. However, it’s important to check with your specific institution, as policies may vary.

Managing Schoolwork During Illness

Extended absences due to viral fevers can lead to missed schoolwork. To help children stay on track:

1. Communicate with teachers about the child’s illness and expected return date
2. Request assignments that can be completed at home, if the child feels well enough
3. Consider virtual learning options if available and appropriate
4. Plan for catch-up work upon return to school

Gradual Return to Activities

As children recover from viral fevers, it’s important to reintroduce activities gradually:

• Start with light activities at home before returning to school
• Encourage rest periods throughout the day
• Delay return to sports or strenuous physical activities until fully recovered
• Monitor for any signs of relapse or lingering symptoms

What precautions should be taken when a child returns to school after a viral fever? Emphasize good hygiene practices, including frequent hand washing and proper respiratory etiquette. If the child still has a mild cough or runny nose, consider sending them with tissues and hand sanitizer.

By understanding how to manage viral fevers effectively and when it’s appropriate for children to return to their normal activities, parents can help ensure a smooth recovery and minimize the impact on their child’s education and social development.

Mayo Clinic Minute: What to do and not do when your child has a viral fever

• By

  DeeDee Stiepan

  August 31, 2022

When kids get sick, most of the time, viruses or bacteria cause their infections. While viral and bacterial infections can have similar symptoms, such as coughing, sore throat and fever, one big difference between the two is how they are treated.

In this Mayo Clinic Minute, Dr. Nipunie Rajapakse, a pediatric infectious diseases specialist at Mayo Clinic’s Children’s Center, explains the differences between the two infections and why antibiotics won’t help and why they may even hurt if taken to treat viral infections.

Watch: The Mayo Clinic Minute

Journalists: Broadcast-quality video (1:09) is in the downloads at the end of this post. Please “Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network.” Read the script.

The most common circulating viruses for the fall and winter, such as colds and flus, rely on the immune system to fight them off. So don’t expect your health care professional to prescribe an antibiotic.

Antibiotics don’t kill off viruses. Dr. Rajapakse says a common misconception she tries to dispel is that children with fevers need to be on an antibiotic before they can return to school or day care.

“Giving a child with a viral infection, an antibiotic, does not help them at all. It won’t help them get better faster, and it can cause them harm,” says Dr. Rajapakse.

She says there’s also the issue of overuse, which is driving antibiotic-resistant bacteria and making infections more difficult to treat.

“We’re trying to reduce the instances that this is happening in bacterial infections. If you have one, an antibiotic can be lifesaving. And, so, these are things like pneumonia or blood infections, or infections of the bone, for example, where antibiotics definitely should be used. And in order to keep them effective for these types of serious infections, we really need to only use them when we know that there’ll be effective and treat patients.”

For viral infections, fever-reducing medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can reduce symptoms while the body fights off the virus.

Related posts:

• “Mayo Clinic Minute: The 3 best ways to keep kids healthy when heading back to school.”

For the safety of its patients, staff and visitors, Mayo Clinic has strict masking policies in place. Anyone shown without a mask was recorded prior to COVID-19 or recorded in an area not designated for patient care, where social distancing and other safety protocols were followed.

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Viral Fever Home Remedies for Treating Children and Adults

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Unlike bacteria, viruses don’t respond to antibiotics. In most cases, viral illnesses simply have to run their course. Staying hydrated or using over-the-counter fever-reducing medications can help until it resolves.

A viral fever is any fever that happens as a result of a viral infection. Viruses are tiny germs that spread easily from person to person.

When you contract a viral condition, such as a cold or flu, your immune system responds by going into overdrive. Part of this response often involves raising your body’s temperature to make it less hospitable to the virus and other germs.

Most people’s usual body temperature is around 98.6°F (37°C). Anything 1 degree or more above this is considered a fever. A fever can last anywhere from a couple of days to a week or longer, depending on the type of infection causing it.

While the virus runs its course, there are several things you can do to help manage your symptoms. Read on to learn more.

Fevers usually aren’t something to worry about. But when they’re high enough, they can pose some health risks.

For children

A high fever can be more dangerous for a young child than an adult. Here’s when to call your child’s doctor:

• Children ages 0 to 3 months: Rectal temperature is 100. 4°F (38°C) or higher.
• Children ages 3 to 6 months: Rectal temperature is above 102°F (39°C) and they’re irritable or sleepy.
• Children ages 6 to 24 months: Rectal temperature is above 102°F (39°C) that lasts for more than a day. If they have other symptoms, such as a rash, cough, or diarrhea, you may want to call sooner.

For children 2 and older, call their doctor if they have a fever that repeatedly rises above 104°F (40°C). Also seek medical advice if your child has a fever and:

• They seem unusually lethargic and irritable or have other severe symptoms.
• The fever lasts longer than three days.
• The fever doesn’t respond to medication.
• They don’t maintain eye contact with you.
• They can’t keep fluids down.

For adults

Fevers can also be risky for adults in some cases. See your doctor for a fever that’s 103°F (39°C) or higher that isn’t responding to medication or lasts longer than three days. Also seek treatment if a fever is accompanied by:

• severe headache
• rash
• sensitivity to bright light
• stiff neck
• frequent vomiting
• trouble breathing
• chest or abdominal pain
• convulsions or seizures

A viral fever makes your body much warmer than usual. This causes your body to sweat in an effort to cool down. But this leads to fluid loss, which can cause dehydration.

Try to drink as much as you can when you have a viral fever to replenish lost fluids. It doesn’t have to be just water, either. Any of the following can provide hydration:

• juice
• sports drinks
• broths
• soups
• decaffeinated tea

Babies and toddlers may benefit from a specially formulated drink with electrolytes, such as Pedialyte. You can purchase these drinks at a local grocery store or online. You can also make your own electrolyte drink at home.

A viral fever is a sign that your body is working hard to fight off an infection. Cut yourself some slack by resting as much as possible. Even if you can’t spend the day in bed, try to avoid as much physical activity as possible. Aim for eight to nine hours or more of sleep per night. During the day, take it easy.

It’s also best to put your exercise routine on a temporary hold. Exerting yourself can further raise your temperature.

Over-the-counter (OTC) fever reducers are the easiest way to manage a fever. In addition to temporarily reducing your fever, they’ll help you feel a little less uncomfortable and more like yourself.

Just make sure you keep getting plenty of rest, even if you feel better for a few hours after taking an OTC drug.

Common OTC fever reducers include:

• acetaminophen (Tylenol, Children’s Tylenol)
• ibuprofen (Advil, Children’s Advil, Motrin)
• aspirin
• naproxen (Aleve)

Before you turn to OTC fever reducers, keep this safety information in mind:

• Never give aspirin to children. It can greatly increase the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but very serious condition.
• Don’t take more than what’s recommended by the manufacturer. Doing so can lead to stomach bleeding, liver damage, or kidney problems.
• Jot down the time when you take an OTC medication so you can make sure you don’t take too much in a 24-hour period.

People sometimes try herbal remedies to treat a fever. Keep in mind that these supplements have been shown to improve fever in animals. There’s no reliable evidence that they work in humans. Their safety in children is often unclear or unknown, too. It’s best to avoid these remedies in children.

It’s also important to note that the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t monitor the quality of supplements like they do for drugs. Talk to your doctor before trying any supplements. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Moringa

Moringa is a tropical plant that has a variety of nutritional and medicinal benefits. Almost all parts of the plant contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and antibacterial agents. A 2014 study found that moringa bark reduced fevers in rabbits.

More research is needed to determine how this plant can reduce fevers in humans. Some research suggests it may be gentler on the liver than over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen.

Don’t use moringa if you:

• are pregnant
• take medications that are substrates of cytochrome P450, such as lovastatin (Altoprev), fexofenadine (Allegra), or ketoconazole (Nizoral)

In one case report, consumption of moringa leaves lead to a rare disease of the skin and mucous membranes called Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS). This suggests people at risk of developing SJS should avoid using moringa. However, this was the first reported case and the reaction should be considered extremely rare.

Kudzu root

Kudzu root is an herb used in traditional Chinese medicine. It has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce pain. A 2012 study also suggests that it reduced fevers in rats, but human studies are needed to evaluate this properly.

Avoid using kudzu root if you:

• take tamoxifen
• have hormonal-sensitive cancer, such as ER-positive breast cancer
• take methotrexate (Rasuvo)

If you take diabetes medications, talk to your doctor before trying kudzu root. It may lead to low blood sugar, requiring a change in medication.

You can find kudzu root in the form a powder, capsule, or liquid extract online.

You can help cool down your body by surrounding it with cooler temperatures. Make sure you don’t overdo it. If you start to shiver, stop immediately. Shivering can cause your fever to rise.

Things you can do to safely cool off include the following:

• Sit in a bath of lukewarm water, which will feel cool when you have a fever. (Cold water will actually cause your body to warm up instead of cool down.)
• Give yourself a sponge bath with lukewarm water.
• Wear light pajamas or clothing.
• Try to avoid using too many extra blankets when you have chills.
• Drink plenty of cool or room-temperature water.
• Eat popsicles.
• Use a fan to keep air circulating.

A viral fever is usually nothing to worry about. In both children and adults, most viruses resolve on their own and are part of the healing process. But if you notice unusual symptoms, or a fever doesn’t go away after a day or so, it’s best to call your doctor.

Read this article in Spanish.

Ebola: symptoms, treatment, prevention

The most dangerous infectious disease, leading to death in 90% of cases of infection, is Ebola fever. This is a viral fever, the course of which is accompanied by a pronounced hemorrhagic syndrome. The causative agent of the disease, the Ebola virus, was discovered in 1976 in Africa and got its name from the river of the same name, in the valley of which an outbreak of infectious fever occurred. The last and most severe epidemic outbreak occurred in 2014, after which the disease was recognized as a global threat.

General

Ebola disease is a zoonotic endemic infection, i.e. the main reservoir for the virus are animals that live in the jungles of Africa. Human infection occurs during contact with an infected animal or its carcass. In the future, the virus is transmitted from a sick person to healthy people. To date, several ways of transmission of Ebola are known:

• contact – through direct contact with infected people, their biological materials and household items, including clothing and bedding;
• injection – when using one injection syringe for several people;
• sexual – during sexual intercourse.

In an infected person, the virus is present in all secretions and biological fluids: in blood, saliva, urine, nasopharyngeal mucus, semen, etc. Through microtraumas on the skin or mucous membrane, it enters the body and affects, first of all, the lymph nodes and spleen, then disseminates to other organs and tissues, causing numerous necrosis and bleeding, including internal ones. Most cases end in the death of the patient due to severe blood loss, infectious intoxication and hypovolemic shock.

How to recognize the disease

In our country, a risk factor for contracting the Ebola virus is a trip to Equatorial Africa or contact with a person who has recently returned from this region with severe manifestations of the infection. Before the onset of symptoms, the patient does not spread the infection, since there are no viruses in his secretions.

At the onset of the disease, the clinical signs of Ebola are similar to most acute infectious diseases and include:

• sudden rise in temperature up to 38-39°C, fever;
• pain in joints and muscles;
• headache;
• weakness, fatigue, malaise;
• pain and sensation of a lump in the throat.

During the first few days, the patient develops a sore throat or ulcerative pharyngitis, abdominal pain and severe diarrhea. A characteristic symptom of Ebola is a change in the face of the patient, which becomes like a mask expressing longing or aggression, with deeply sunken eyes.

After about a week or a little less, severe chest pains appear, abdominal pains intensify, blood appears in the feces. A reddish rash appears on the skin, covering the lower half of the trunk and limbs. Hemorrhage develops, expressed by external and internal bleeding. With a favorable course of the disease, clinical recovery occurs after two to three weeks, but the recovery period continues for the next two to three months.

Diagnostic methods

For our country, Ebola remains an extremely rare disease, so diagnostic tests are performed in specialized virological laboratories that comply with the highest biological safety standards. The virus is isolated from any biological fluids of the patient, after which it is transferred to cell cultures, PCR tests are performed, biopsies of the skin and internal organs are examined using an electron microscope. In addition, a general analysis and a blood coagulogram are performed to identify characteristic changes.

Features of the treatment process

For Ebola treatment, a patient in a special isolation box is taken to an equipped medical facility and placed in a closed box with appropriate measures to prevent further spread of the infection. Medical personnel use complex barrier protection and conduct round-the-clock monitoring of the patient’s condition. Therapy consists mainly in eliminating the effect of toxins on the patient’s body, combating dehydration that occurs due to prolonged diarrhea, and manifestations of hemorrhage. The introduction of blood plasma taken from recovered people in some cases has a positive effect on the course of the disease.

To date, a vaccine against hemorrhagic fever has not yet been developed, although experimental samples are being tested in laboratories in several countries. Ebola prevention consists in tracing the contacts of the sick and isolating in a timely manner all people who have been in contact with them, even for a short time.

Considerable importance is attached to sanitary measures – quarantine control at airports, compliance with the rules of individual protection, disinfection of premises and household items used by the infected. People who are suspected of being infected with the Ebola virus are given an injection of a specific immunoglobulin, which is produced from blood serum. The highest lethality and contagiousness of the infection make it necessary to apply the most severe measures to prevent the possibility of its spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to make sure you don’t get Ebola when you travel to Africa?

At present, areas at some risk of Ebola infection are limited to Nigeria, Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone. To avoid infection, it is necessary to avoid contact with sick people, their secretions, as well as with those who have recently been ill and cured. It is not recommended to participate in the funeral of people who died from this disease. In addition, you should beware of wild animals that can transmit the disease by biting, do not eat poorly fried meat. Careful observance of the rules of personal hygiene is a prerequisite for your safety.

Can you get sick while sitting on a plane with an Ebola patient?

As practice shows, the Ebola virus is transmitted only through close contact, during which the patient’s body fluids or secretions come into contact with the skin or mucous membrane of a healthy person. This infection is not transmitted by airborne droplets.

Do I need to be screened after traveling to Africa?

When traveling to countries in Equatorial Africa, the risk of Ebola infection remains extremely small, especially if you did not come into contact with a sick person during the trip. If there are no signs of illness within three weeks after returning, then you are completely healthy. If you have any suspicious symptoms, you should call your doctor on the phone and report the suspected infection.

Mouse fever (Hemorrhagic fever) in children and adults: symptoms, signs, treatment

Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (the second name is mouse fever) is a disease of the infectious group, often associated with the beginning of the summer season and agricultural work. Every year, about 7,000 cases of infection are recorded in the country, which makes itself felt with characteristic symptoms – a hemorrhagic rash, vascular damage, malfunctioning of the kidneys and a general deterioration in a person’s condition. In the absence of timely assistance, the disease can cause serious complications and death. Only timely seeking medical help will help preserve the health of the patient and return him to normal life.

Causes of mouse fever

For a long time, the beginning of the summer season was marked by a sharp increase in patients who went to the doctor with the same symptoms – impaired excretory function, skin rashes, changes in blood composition, weakness and malaise. Detailed studies have identified the culprits who are carriers of a dangerous infection.

These are rodents, in the body of which there is a sufficient amount of pathogenic microflora. Together with secretions, it enters the soil and on the skin of a person during summer work, digging the soil, outdoor recreation and sports. Through dirty hands, pathogens enter the body, penetrate the respiratory system and blood vessels, causing the appearance of characteristic symptoms. Most of the sick are lovers of summer holidays and employees of agricultural enterprises involved in planting plants and harvesting in the fields and gardens.

A significant part of the rodents that are carriers of hemorrhagic fever infection move through fields, broad-leaved forests, garden plots, abandoned agricultural land, auxiliary buildings, etc. With the onset of cold weather, they tend to penetrate into houses, where they continue to actively breed. Their waste products remain on the surfaces of the floor and walls, tables and shelves, which significantly increases the risk of infection during cleaning and tidying up.

Routes of infection include:

• airborne – inhalation of dust containing small particles of excrement;
• alimentary – consumption of water contaminated with rodents;
• contact – in contact with human skin of the remains of waste products and contaminated soil.

Cases of transmission of the disease from an infected person to healthy people have not been registered.

Mouse Fever Symptoms

The disease manifests itself in several stages:

In the initial stage, which takes about 3 days, the first signs of mouse fever resemble the flu or an acute viral infection. There is an increase in temperature, aches and pain in the muscles, chills and weakness, thirst, a decrease in pressure and a slowing of the pulse. Many patients complain of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes, conjunctivitis, and a rash.

At the next stage, the patient has nausea and vomiting, swelling of the face and body, bloating of the abdominal cavity, back pain in the lumbar region. The duration of this period is about 10-11 days. In the absence of medical attention, with symptoms of mouse fever, there is a risk of internal bleeding with subsequent death.

Thanks to timely medical care, the patient’s recovery takes about one to one and a half months. Complete disposal of the body from the pathogen and symptoms of mouse fever in men and women is observed after 4-6 months.

Consequences of mouse fever

The presence in the body of complex diseases of internal organs, the general depressed state of the immune system and the rapid development of the disease against the background of the lack of timely medical care can cause the development of the following pathologies:

• pancreatitis;
• myocarditis;
• sepsis;
• edematous phenomena in the lungs;
• meningitis, cerebral hemorrhage;
• renal insufficiency.

The combination of the listed consequences of mouse fever contributes to the rapid deterioration of the patient’s condition and can lead to irreversible consequences in the body.

Diagnostic methods

Some signs of an infectious disease can be detected at the stage of visual examination and history taking. Confirm the doctor’s assumptions allow the analysis of PCR (polymerase chain reaction) enzyme immunoassay, showing the presence of antibodies to the pathogen in the blood. Radiography, ultrasound diagnostics and urinalysis allow to clarify the state of internal organs.

How to treat?

Putting off going to the doctor, hoping for the results of folk methods, is a serious risk. The result of such a decision can be a significant deterioration in the patient’s condition up to the failure of internal organs, extensive internal bleeding and death. Moreover, the medical institution will offer comprehensive treatment aimed at eliminating the symptoms and causes of the pathology:

• intravenous injections of ribavirin;
• the introduction of saline and glucose solution to restore the basic functions and nutrition of the body;
• a course of multivitamin preparations;
• blood transfusion, excluding the consequences of its infection with a pathogen.

A therapeutic diet with the complete exclusion of spicy and spicy foods, alcohol, vinegar and seasonings can speed up recovery.

Ways to Prevent Infection with Mouse Fever

You can avoid infection by following these guidelines:

• regular cleaning of the premises of a country house and an agricultural enterprise using automatic equipment and disinfectants;
• protection of the skin of the hands and respiratory tract when cleaning or working with open ground;
• destruction of products spoiled by rodents;
• sealing joints and seams through which uninvited vectors of infection can enter the room;
• storage of foodstuffs in hermetically sealed containers;
• thorough heat treatment of food before eating.

Other recommendations for infection prevention can be obtained from the attending physician who supervises the treatment of murine fever.

Diagnosis and treatment of mouse fever in Moscow

The qualified staff of the clinic of JSC “Medicina” in the Central Administrative District of Moscow invites patients with the first signs of the disease for an initial consultation, diagnosis and treatment of mouse fever. All the necessary examinations and procedures can be done at the medical center, equipped with advanced equipment from leading world manufacturers. Each patient is guaranteed an attentive attitude, careful development of an individual treatment course, control of specialists and confidentiality of personal information. You can make an appointment on the clinic’s website or by calling the indicated numbers in Moscow.

Questions and answers

What is mouse fever?

Mouse fever is the second name for hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome.