Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Warning

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Most people have a body temperature of about 98.6°F (37°C). Anything a degree above this is considered a fever. Fevers are often a sign that your body is fighting off some type of bacterial or viral infection. A viral fever is any fever that’s caused by an underlying viral illness.

A variety of viral infections can affect humans, from the common cold to the flu. A low-grade fever is a symptom of many viral infections. But some viral infections, such as dengue fever, can cause a higher fever.

Read on to learn more about viral fevers, including common symptoms and treatment options.

Viral fevers can range in temperature from 99°F to over 103°F (39°C), depending on the underlying virus.

If you have a viral fever, you might have some of these general symptoms:

• chills
• sweating
• dehydration
• headache
• muscle aches and pains
• a feeling of weakness
• loss of appetite

These symptoms usually only last for a few days at most.

A viral fever is caused by infection with a virus. Viruses are very small infectious agents. They infect and multiply within the cells of your body. A fever is your body’s way of fighting off a virus. Many viruses are sensitive to shifts in temperature, so a sudden increase in your body temperature makes you less hospitable to viruses.

There are many ways that you can become infected with a virus, including:

• Inhalation. If someone with a viral infection sneezes or coughs near you, you can breathe in droplets containing the virus. Examples of viral infections from inhalation include the flu or common cold.
• Ingestion. Food and drinks can be contaminated with viruses. If you eat them, you can develop an infection. Examples of viral infections from ingestion include norovirus and enteroviruses.
• Bites. Insects and other animals can carry viruses. If they bite you, you can develop an infection. Examples of viral infections that result from bites include dengue fever and rabies.
• Bodily fluids. Exchanging bodily fluids with someone who has a viral infection can transfer the illness. Examples of this type of viral infection include hepatitis B and HIV.

Both viral and bacterial infections often cause similar symptoms. To diagnose a viral fever, a doctor will likely start by ruling out a bacterial infection. They can do this by considering your symptoms and medical history, as well as taking any samples to test for bacteria.

If you have a sore throat, for example, they might swab your throat to test for bacteria that causes strep throat. If the sample comes back negative, you likely have a viral infection.

They can also take a sample of blood or other bodily fluid to check for certain markers that might indicate a viral infection, such as your white blood cell count.

In most cases, viral fevers don’t require any specific treatment. Unlike bacterial infections, they don’t respond to antibiotics.

Instead, treatment usually focuses on providing relief from your symptoms. Common treatment methods include:

• taking over-the-counter fever reducers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to reduce a fever and its symptoms
• resting as much as possible
• drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and replenish fluids lost while sweating
• taking antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir phosphate (Tamiflu), when applicable
• sitting in a lukewarm bath to bring your body temperature down

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In many cases, a viral fever isn’t anything to worry about. But if you have a fever that reaches 103°F (39°C) or higher, it’s best to call a doctor. You should also call a doctor if you have a baby with a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Learn more about managing fevers in babies.

If you have a fever, keep an eye out for the following symptoms, which all indicate a need for medical treatment:

• severe headache
• difficulty breathing
• chest pain
• abdominal pains
• frequent vomiting
• a rash, especially if it quickly gets worse
• a stiff neck, especially if you feel pain when bending it forward
• confusion
• convulsions or seizures

A viral fever refers to any fever that results from a viral infection, such as the flu or dengue fever. While most viral fevers resolve on their own within a day or two, some are more severe and require medical treatment. If your temperature starts reading 103°F (39°C) or higher, it’s time to call a doctor. Otherwise, try to get as much rest as possible and stay hydrated.

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Viral Fever: Learn Causes & Symptoms Of Infection

Viral fever refers to a collection of viral infections that impact the body and are characterised by a high temperature, burning eyes, headaches, body aches, nausea, and vomiting.

Because their immunity is poorer, viral fever is more common among youngsters and the elderly. Fever is not an illness in and of itself; it is a symptom of an underlying cause, which is a viral infection. A viral infection can affect any region of the body, including the intestines, lungs, and airways. As a result of the infection, a fever will develop. A high fever is usually a sign that the body’s immune system is fighting and “burning off” intruding pathogens.

Many people self-medicate when they have an intermittent high fever with chills, sometimes even taking antibiotics, which is a bad idea. Viruses are immune to antibiotics. They eliminate dangerous germs. Antibiotics can harm your stomach lining, kill good gut flora, induce acidity, and damage your liver and kidneys if taken too often.

If you have a fever of more than 103 F/40 C that does not seem to be going away, you should see your family doctor or go to a general practitioner to be checked.

What are the symptoms of viral fever?

Depending on the underlying virus, viral fevers can range in temperature from 99°F to over 103°F (39°C).

If you have viral fever, you may have the following viral fever symptoms:

• Occasional chills
• Body temperature up to 103°
• Dehydration
• Headache
• Muscle and joint pains
• Weakness
• A loss of appetite

These symptoms normally only last a few days.

What causes viral fever?

Infection with a virus causes a viral fever. Viruses are infectious agents that are incredibly tiny. They invade and multiply throughout your body’s cells. A fever is your body’s defence mechanism against a virus. Because many viruses are sensitive to temperature changes, a quick rise in your body temperature makes you less virus-friendly.

You can get infected with a virus in a variety of ways, including:

• Viral fever can be passed from one person to the next by coming into close contact with the host (the person infected with the virus) or a carrier (the one who might not have the symptoms of the viral fever but is carrying the virus).

• Inhaling virus-containing droplets from an infected individual can also spread the viral fever. The most prevalent cause of viral fever is seasonal flu.

• Sharing food or drinks with someone infected with a virus can potentially spread the virus.

• Viral fever can also be caused by contaminated water, especially in children.

• Viral fever can also be conveyed by coming into contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids during sexual activity.

• Insect bites like mosquito or tick bites can transmit the virus that causes viral fever from these insects to people. Some viral fevers caused by insect bites are dengue fever, yellow fever, Zika, and Chikungunya.

• During drug usage, blood exchange with an infected person might cause viral fever.

How is viral fever diagnosed?

Viral fever symptoms and bacterial infections are typically similar. A doctor will most likely rule out a bacterial infection before diagnosing a viral fever. They can do so by looking at your symptoms and medical history and taking any samples for bacteria testing.

They could swab your throat if you have a sore throat to check for bacteria that cause strep throat. If the test results are negative, you are most likely infected with a virus.

They can also collect a blood sample or other bodily fluid to look for indicators that indicate a viral infection, such as your white blood cell count.

How is a viral fever treated?

Viral fever treatment is determined by the type of virus and the severity of the symptoms. For low-grade viral fever, doctors usually try to prescribe drugs like paracetamol or ibuprofen. Warm baths and electrolyte drinks can also assist with muscle aches, exhaustion, and diarrhea.

To relieve the discomfort of high-grade fever, your doctor may recommend a high dose of paracetamol to be taken more frequently (every 4-6 hours). You should not stop taking your medications without first visiting your doctor. Paracetamol can be given intravenously to lower their fever and bring it closer to normal for critically unwell individuals.

Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections, and they must be taken exactly as prescribed in terms of dose, frequency, and duration.

People frequently self-medicate using over-the-counter (OTC) viral fever drugs to ease the symptoms. Self-medication, however, can be harmful because it might lead to serious problems or the use of the wrong prescription. For correct diagnosis and treatment options, you should visit a doctor and seek medical attention. In addition, we urge that you contact our medical advisors for the most acceptable viral fever treatment alternatives.

Hemorrhagic fevers: causes, symptoms and treatment

Contents

• 1 Hemorrhagic fevers
  • 1.1 What are hemorrhagic fevers
  • 1. 2 What are the causes of hemorrhagic fevers

  90 005 1.3 Symptoms of haemorrhagic fevers

  • 1.4 How haemorrhagic fevers are diagnosed
  • 1.5 Treatment of hemorrhagic fevers: list of methods
  • 1.6 Treatment of children with hemorrhagic fever
  • 1.7 Prevention and precautions for hemorrhagic fever
  • 1.8 What are the terrible consequences of hemorrhagic fevers
  • 1.9 How to prevent the spread of hemorrhagic fevers
  • 1.10 How dangerous are hemorrhagic fevers for people

  900 05 1.11 Who most often suffers from hemorrhagic fevers: age and sexual characteristics

  • 1.12 How to properly use antihemorrhagic drugs
  • 1.13 How to treat hemorrhagic fevers in home medicine
  • 1.14 Features of the diet in the treatment of hemorrhagic fevers
  • 1.15 Questions from patients about hemorrhagic fevers
  • 1.16 Conclusions: how to maintain health in the face of the likelihood of developing hemorrhagic fevers
  • 1. 17 Related videos:
  • 1.18 Q&A:
    • • 1.18.0.1 What are hemorrhagic fevers?
      • 1.18.0.2 How are haemorrhagic fevers transmitted?
      • 1.18.0.3 What are the symptoms of hemorrhagic fevers?
      • 1.18.0.4 What are the treatments for hemorrhagic fevers?
      • 1.18.0.5
      • 1.18.0.6 Could hemorrhagic fevers become a pandemic?
      • 1.18.0.7 How is haemorrhagic fever diagnosed?

Hemorrhagic fevers are infectious diseases accompanied by bleeding in the patient. Symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment of hemorrhagic fevers – a portal about medicine and health MedBook.

Hemorrhagic fevers are a group of infectious diseases that cause severe symptoms and can lead to death. They are so named because they cause bleeding symptoms such as bleeding from the gums and nose, bruising and bruising all over the body.

There are many different types of hemorrhagic fevers, each with unique symptoms and treatment options. Some of these diseases can be transmitted from person to person, while others can only be transmitted through the bites of certain types of insects.

Like many infectious diseases, a key factor in preventing hemorrhagic fevers is early detection and treatment. In this article, we’ll look at the main causes, symptoms, and treatments for these conditions, as well as the important precautions you need to take to protect yourself from them.

What are hemorrhagic fevers

Hemorrhagic fevers, also known as hemorrhagic fevers, are a group of diseases that are manifested by fever, hemorrhagic diathesis (bleeding), and possible dysfunction of internal organs.

Hemorrhagic fevers are caused by various viruses, bacteria or other microorganisms. Some of them have a high mortality rate and can spread ferociously.

Symptoms of hemorrhagic fevers may include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding, abnormal liver and kidney function, and other possible manifestations depending on the specific disease.

Hemorrhagic fevers are serious diseases that require immediate treatment and careful monitoring by medical personnel. Treatment may include the use of antiviral, antibacterial, or antihemorrhagic agents, depending on the type of disease.

What are the causes of hemorrhagic fevers

Hemorrhagic fevers are a group of dangerous viral diseases that can lead to bleeding from various organs and systems.

The cause of this disease may be human contact with infected animals – rodents, bats, monkeys. Infection is also possible through the bites of insects, such as mosquitoes.

Hemorrhagic fever viruses spread quickly and easily, especially in settings where there are many people in enclosed spaces, such as group flights, conventions, etc.

It is important to note that the poor quality of drinking water, as well as eating raw meat from infected animals, can also cause this disease.

People who work with animals or farm animals are particularly at risk. Also, the risk of infection is higher in those who travel to countries where cases of hemorrhagic fevers are recorded.

Such illnesses require immediate medical attention and caution when exposed to infectious agents.

Symptoms of hemorrhagic fevers

Hemorrhagic fevers are serious and dangerous diseases that can lead to bleeding syndromes and dangerous complications. The main symptoms of such diseases are:

• high body temperature;
• severe headache;
• nausea and vomiting;
• abdominal pain;
• hemorrhages or bleeding from various parts of the body;
• obesity and skin rashes;
• weakness and attacks of dizziness;
• sudden loss of appetite;
• pain in joints and muscles;
• difficult breathing and palpitations.

If you have one or more of these symptoms, you need to see a doctor for qualified help. The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the more effectively and quickly treatment can be undertaken.

How is hemorrhagic fever diagnosed

Diagnosis of hemorrhagic fevers is the process of detection and identification of the causative agent of the disease. To determine the presence of infection, it is necessary to conduct a series of laboratory and instrumental studies.

One of the first diagnostic methods is a patient’s blood test. After taking the blood, various tests are performed, such as a complete blood count, a biochemical blood test, and immunoserological tests. A complete blood count can detect changes in the number of leukocytes, platelets and red blood cells, which indicates the presence of an infection. A biochemical blood test allows you to evaluate the functioning of internal organs and determine the presence of toxic pathology. Immunoserological studies are aimed at detecting antibodies that develop in response to an infection.

In addition, special laboratory tests are carried out to determine the specific causative agent of the disease. For example, to detect the Ebola virus, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is used, which makes it possible to detect the DNA or RNA of the virus in blood, saliva, cerebrospinal fluid and other biological materials. Antigen and immunohistochemical tests are also being conducted to diagnose other types of hemorrhagic fevers.

In addition to laboratory tests, a clinical examination is carried out, which includes taking an anamnesis, an assessment of symptoms and the state of organs and systems, as well as a physical examination. Sometimes it may be necessary to conduct instrumental studies, such as ultrasound, X-ray, CT and MRI.

Treatment of hemorrhagic fevers: a list of methods

Hemorrhagic fevers are serious diseases that require complex treatment. The following are the main treatments used to fight these infections:

• Antibacterials. These medicines are used to fight the infectious agent that caused the illness. Their choice depends on the type of disease and the sensitivity of bacteria to certain drugs.
• Antivirals. If haemorrhagic fever is caused by a virus, your doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs. They help reduce the symptoms of the disease and speed up recovery.
• Immunoglobulins. These are medicines that contain antibodies. They help fight the infectious agent and protect the body from re-infection.
• Rehabilitation therapy. Rehabilitation therapy is aimed at maintaining the function of organs and systems of the body, strengthening immunity and restoring strength. The doctor may prescribe medications that contain vitamins and minerals to the patient, as well as physiotherapy procedures.

It is important to note that the treatment of hemorrhagic fevers requires immediate hospitalization and medical supervision. Self-medication can lead to negative consequences.

Features of the treatment of children with hemorrhagic fever

Hemorrhagic fevers are dangerous diseases that can be fatal. Treatment of children with these diseases requires special attention because their immune systems are not yet fully developed. However, a rational approach to treatment can increase the chances of recovery.

At the beginning of treatment, a diagnosis must be established and immediate therapy should be carried out. In most cases, this may include antibiotics, phlebotomy, serotherapy, and blood transfusion. Any choice of drugs or treatment should be made under the supervision of physicians.

To facilitate the treatment process, it is indicated to follow the diet and drink regimen, which should be rich in vegetable fats and proteins. It is also important to ensure the complete rest of the patient and maintain body temperature in the normal range.

Some cases of hemorrhagic fevers may lead to complications requiring surgical intervention. In these cases, the operation should be carried out by specialists with relevant experience, and the treatment should take place in specialized medical institutions.

In general, the treatment of hemorrhagic fevers in childhood requires a comprehensive and responsible approach, which includes not only the choice of drugs, but also the establishment of a maintenance regimen and adherence to a multidisciplinary approach.

Prevention and precautions for hemorrhagic fever

Hemorrhagic fevers are a serious threat to human health and life. Therefore, it is important to take precautions in order to protect yourself from the possibility of infection.

The main preventive measures are the observance of hygiene rules and control over the place of stay. It is important to keep your hands clean, wash them regularly with soap and use antiseptics. It is also necessary to avoid contact with infected animals or their secretions.

When traveling in areas with a high incidence of hemorrhagic fevers, special controls should be observed. In such cases, it is necessary to use protective equipment – masks, gloves, personal protective equipment.

In order to prevent hemorrhagic fevers, it is necessary to regularly disinfect rooms and places of stay, as well as control the hygiene of personal life. If you find possible symptoms of the disease, you should consult a doctor and follow the recommendations for treatment.

Thus, prevention and precautions for hemorrhagic fevers are essential to protect human health and life. Compliance with hygiene rules, monitoring the place of stay, the use of protective equipment – all these measures will help prevent infection and maintain health.

What terrible consequences can be with hemorrhagic fevers

Hemorrhagic fevers is a serious disease that can lead to various complications. Possible consequences of this disease can be:

1. Loss of blood. One of the main symptoms of hemorrhagic fever is bleeding, which may be internal or external. Therefore, the patient may require a blood or plasma transfusion to restore levels if possible.
2. Damage to internal organs. Hemorrhagic fever can damage both internal and external organs. It can affect the organs responsible for blood clotting, the liver and kidneys, which can lead to their functional failure.
3. Sepsis. If bleeding is not controlled, it can develop into sepsis. It is a dangerous infectious disease that can cause a life-threatening organ disorder.
4. Death. In some cases, if the disease is not diagnosed in time or treated, the consequences can be fatal. Death can occur within days or weeks of the onset of the disease.

Therefore, if you suspect that you or someone close to you has a hemorrhagic fever, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Saving the life of the patient is the main task in the treatment of this disease.

How to prevent the spread of haemorrhagic fevers

Practice good hygiene

It is very important to wash your hands regularly, especially before meals and after visiting public places. Use hand sanitizers if soap and water are not available. It is also necessary to monitor the cleanliness in homes, workplaces and public buildings.

Avoid contact with sick people

Contact transmission is the main mode of spread of hemorrhagic fevers. Avoid approaching sick people, little-studied animals and insects. Control your life and we urge you not to approach the sick without precaution.

Ventilate rooms and keep them clean

Hemorrhagic fevers are spread through the air. It is important to ventilate the premises, keep them clean and follow the rules of hygiene around animals and insects. If pests are present, repellents should be used.

Get your vaccines

There are several vaccines available that prevent infection with various forms of hemorrhagic fevers, such as Ebola, Crimean hemorrhagic fever, and several others. Get vaccines if available.

Remember that you are an element in the fight against the spread of hemorrhagic fevers

Each of us must be aware of our role in the fight against the spread of hemorrhagic fevers. Observe the rules of hygiene, avoid contact with sick, money and little-studied animals and insects, and take care of your health. Together we can prevent the spread of these diseases.

How dangerous are hemorrhagic fevers for humans

Hemorrhagic fevers pose a serious threat to human health. They cause an acute infection, accompanied by the release of blood from various organs and tissues. Some of these diseases can be fatal.

The danger of hemorrhagic fevers is associated with their rapid development and the possibility of rapid spread among people. These infections are associated with viruses that can be transmitted through contact with infected blood or animal tissues that are reservoirs of viruses.

Symptoms of hemorrhagic fever include skin rash, thrombocytopenia, severe muscle and joint pain, icteric coloration of the skin and eyes, and severe emaciation. Treatment consists of complex therapy, including supportive measures and antiviral therapy.

An unfavorable outcome is possible in the absence of timely diagnosis and treatment of hemorrhagic fever. Mortality with this infection can reach 90%, so it is important to consult a doctor at the first symptoms of the disease. Inaction and ignorance can lead to tragic consequences not only for the sick person, but also for the people around them.

Being dangerous to health, hemorrhagic fevers can be prevented by strict adherence to safety and prevention measures, as well as by controlling livestock production and regular vaccination of animals. The basic rule in the fight against these diseases is the rapid identification and isolation of infected persons or animals. This is the only way to prevent the possible spread of the epidemic and save people’s lives.

Who most often suffers from hemorrhagic fevers: age and gender characteristics

Hemorrhagic fever (PH) can affect people of all ages and sexes, but some populations are at greater risk of infection and severe disease. The most vulnerable are:

• People living in epidemic zones. So, in Africa there are regions where Ebola, Lassa fever, Crimean-Congo and Marburg hemorrhagic fevers occur. Dengue fever is common in Southeast Asia.
• Medical personnel. PH can be spread through blood and other bodily fluids, so health care workers may be exposed to infection while caring for patients.
• Travelers working in developing countries. Tourism, business travel and humanitarian missions can be a source of infection, especially if preventive measures are not followed.
• People who consume the blood or meat of infected animals. Some LH are transmitted through contact with the blood, meat, or organs of infected animals. For example, Marburg fever is caused by a virus that lives in the fruits of African fruit bats.

According to the US National Institute of Medicine, men and women suffer from PH in approximately the same way. However, in different age groups, the risk of the disease may be different. So, in the USA and Europe, the presence of antibodies to the dengue hemorrhagic fever virus was found in people under the age of 30, mainly among men who were in the service abroad.

How to properly use anti-hemorrhagic drugs

Anti-hemorrhagic drugs are used to treat hemorrhagic-type fevers. They help stop bleeding and reduce the risk of complications. However, for the correct use of antihemorrhagic drugs, the following points must be considered:

• The dosage of the drug must be indicated in the instructions for the drug.
• Do not exceed the allowed dose, as this may lead to side effects and deterioration of the patient’s condition.
• Antihemorrhagic drugs may affect blood function and should be tested appropriately before use.
• Medicines should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor and in the required dose.

You should also pay attention to possible side effects when using antihemorrhagic drugs. Among them may be: allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, convulsions, etc. If the patient has any undesirable effects, then you should immediately seek help from a doctor.

How to treat hemorrhagic fevers in home medicine

Hemorrhagic fevers are dangerous infectious diseases with a complex course, so treatment should be carried out under medical supervision. However, at home, you can take some actions to alleviate the patient’s condition.

The first priority is to provide peace and comfort to the patient. He should lie in bed in a quiet room, under an isolation room, so as not to infect other people. It is also important to provide the patient with sufficient fluids to maintain hydration.

If the patient has seizures, medications can be given to improve cardiovascular function and reduce adrenaline production. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral drugs, but the use of drugs must be coordinated with the doctor.

It is important to monitor the condition of the patient’s skin. If rashes appear, they must be treated with antiseptics and wrapped in a towel to prevent the spread of infection.

Another important component of treatment is the prevention of complications. The patient must necessarily monitor oral hygiene, regularly ventilate the room where he is, and monitor his emotional experiences.

We must not forget that self-treatment can lead to negative consequences. Therefore, if you suspect hemorrhagic fever, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible and follow his prescriptions.

Features of the diet in the treatment of hemorrhagic fevers

Diet is one of the important components of the complex treatment of hemorrhagic fevers, as proper nutrition helps to strengthen the immune system and restore the body.

The main principles of the diet in the treatment of hemorrhagic fevers are the use of foods that provide the body with the necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals, as well as the absence of foods that can irritate the stomach and cause allergic reactions.

Don’t forget about your drinking regime: it is important to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration. It is recommended to drink non-carbonated mineral waters, teas, cocktails made from fresh fruits and vegetables.

Small portions of whole grain cereals, fresh fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, animal and vegetable proteins (fish, meat, eggs, legumes), nuts are recommended as food.

In the treatment of hemorrhagic fevers, foods containing large amounts of animal fats, sugar, salt and food additives should be avoided. You should also limit your intake of caffeine, alcohol, and smoking.

When drawing up a diet, the individual needs of the patient and the recommendations of the doctor should always be taken into account, since each case of the disease is unique and may require special approaches to treatment and nutrition.

Questions from patients about hemorrhagic fevers

What are hemorrhagic fevers and what causes them?

Hemorrhagic fevers are a group of rare infectious diseases caused by viruses. Transmission of viruses occurs through contact with the blood, saliva, urine or feces of infected animals or humans. They can be caused by various viruses, including Ebola, Lassa, Khanty-Mansiysk fever, Crimean Congo, Marburg and others.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of hemorrhagic fevers can range from milder symptoms such as fever, headache and muscle aches to more severe symptoms such as rash, bleeding and organ dysfunction. Depending on the specific virus, symptoms may appear immediately or several days after infection.

What are the main treatments?

Patients with suspected haemorrhagic fever should seek immediate medical attention. There is no specific therapy for these infections, but supportive care and symptomatic treatment may help patients. It is important to provide effective hydration, compensate for blood loss and stabilize organ functions in a timely manner. However, early detection and preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of infection with these diseases.

How to prevent infection?

Avoid contact with blood, saliva, urine and feces of animals and people that may be contaminated, and adhere to good hygiene and personal hygiene. It is especially important to use personal protective equipment when working with animals, the environment and in everyday life.

Conclusions: how to stay healthy in the face of the likelihood of contracting hemorrhagic fevers

The likelihood of getting sick with hemorrhagic fevers under the right conditions is extremely small, but there are several simple measures that will help protect your health from this disease:

• Practice personal and general hygiene: wash your hands regularly, use personal protective equipment when working with infected animals;
• Take care of your immunity: eat healthy and varied food, pay attention to physical activity and rest;
• Take care of your health: do not put off going to the doctor, regularly undergo preventive examinations;
• Be alert: if you develop symptoms that resemble those of haemorrhagic fever, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

By following these simple rules, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting haemorrhagic fever and keep yourself healthy.

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Q&A:

What are hemorrhagic fevers?

This is a group of infectious diseases that cause fever, bleeding, and dysfunction of internal organs such as the liver, kidneys, and lungs. They can be caused by various viruses such as Ebola, Marburg, Lassa, South American Hemorrhagic Fever and others.

How are hemorrhagic fevers transmitted?

Hemorrhagic fevers can be transmitted by contact when an infected person comes into contact with the blood, urine, saliva, sweat, or other bodily fluids of an infected person or animal. They can also be transmitted through the bites of infected insects or after eating contaminated food or water.

What are the symptoms of hemorrhagic fevers?

Symptoms of hemorrhagic fevers may include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, severe cough, hemostatic disturbances, hemorrhagic rashes, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, drowsiness, restlessness. In the worst cases, organ dysfunction and death can occur.

What are the treatments for hemorrhagic fevers?

There are several treatments for hemorrhagic fevers, but there is no specific cure for these diseases. Treatment may include hydration, maintenance of organ functions, such as the lungs, as well as the liver and kidneys. Patients may also receive infusions to maintain hemostasis and circulation. Some people may also receive antiviral medicines and drugs to improve the immune system.

Could hemorrhagic fevers become a pandemic?

Hemorrhagic fevers such as Ebola can be highly contagious and can spread rapidly in populations. However, their spread is best controlled with a strong health system, training and political will. At the moment, hemorrhagic fevers are not considered a pandemic disease, but it is always necessary to be prepared for any dangerous virus that may appear in the future.

How is hemorrhagic fever diagnosed?

Hemorrhagic fevers are diagnosed through clinical and industrial methods. Patients usually undergo blood tests to detect the presence of viruses that cause hemorrhagic fevers such as Ebola, Marburg and others. Test results are usually revealed after a few days and may make a first guess about the diagnosis. For a more accurate diagnosis, additional studies are necessary, for example, using x-rays and ultrasound.

What are the causes of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa?

Summary

An analysis of the social, environmental and other factors responsible for the rapid spread of Ebola by a team of scientists from the United States

In December 2013, in a small village in Guinea on the border with Sierro Leone, the first case of Ebola infection was reported, which marked the beginning of the largest epidemic of this disease in the world. This outbreak is the first to spread outside of Central Africa and is unique in size, duration and geographical extent. It is not surprising that this epidemic has attracted great attention not only from health professionals, but also from almost the entire world community.

Ebola haemorrhagic fever is known to be an acute zoonotic viral disease that historically originated in rural areas of Central Africa. The Ebola virus was first identified in a person in South Sudan in 1976, but its earlier appearance in 1972 in Tandala (Democratic Republic of the Congo – DRC) is also quite likely. The current outbreak is caused by Zairian ebolavirus, a strain that previously circulated only in 3 Central African countries: DRC, Republic of the Congo and Gabon. The impact of this epidemic on the health sector, as well as the social and economic sectors of the countries of West Africa, is enormous, and, apparently, the consequences of the Ebola epidemic will long outlive it. In this regard, various medical organizations are currently doing serious work not only to localize the infection and treat patients, but also to find the causes that provoked this epidemic in order to prevent its recurrence in the future. A detailed analysis of possible causes in November in the journal “PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases” was published by a group of scientists from the United States representing various scientific structures.

Routes of transmission

As the researchers point out, although this outbreak is far from the first, it is unique in the context of the geographical distribution and the number of infected people (table). The natural reservoir of infection is the wild animals of Africa – bats, primates, antelopes and some rodents. Most likely, it is fruit bats that are the main natural reservoir of infection, and other animals become infected after contact with them, for example, when eating fruits that were also eaten by bats. Animal-to-human transmission also appears to occur through contact with bats. In equatorial Africa, people often eat their meat.

Ebola haemorrhagic fever outbreak table since 2004

According to scientists, the transmission of the virus in humans occurs through the mucous membrane, skin lesions or parenterally. The mode of transmission plays an important role in the course of the disease. So, at 1976, during the Ebola outbreak in the DRC, the incubation period for parenteral transmission (through an unsterile needle) was only 5–9 days and the mortality rate was 100%. In laboratory experiments on animals with intramuscular or intraperitoneal infection, the course of the disease was also more rapid than with other modes of transmission. The aerosol route of transmission has also been proven in similar experiments, but this route seems to play an insignificant role in natural outbreaks of the disease.

Origin of the virus and mutations

Phylogenetic analysis has shown that the virus strain responsible for the current epidemic most likely originated from an outbreak in Central Africa in 2003-2004. In Sierra Leone, the outbreak is believed to have started due to two genetically different viruses from Guinea. These two viruses first spread across Guinea at the end of April, and a month later they were already detected in Sierra Leone.

A total of 396 genetic mutations have been identified in the virus that have occurred since its first detection in Central Africa, including 50 new mutations that have already occurred in West Africa. During the current outbreak, the frequency of nucleotide replacements increased by an average of 2 times compared to data available from other outbreaks. Nucleotide mutations were non-synonymous, that is, those that change the sequence of amino acids in a protein and can potentially correlate with phenotypic changes leading to a change in the behavior of the virus. In addition, since the Ebola outbreak is not yet over, there are opportunities for further mutations. At the moment, scientists conclude that there have been no significant changes affecting the ways of its transmission.

According to epidemiological data, in this Ebola outbreak, the average incubation period is 11.4 days, reproductive number (average number of infected per infected person) is 1.71-2.02, mortality is 69. 0-70.7%, time between consecutive cases in the transmission chain of the virus is 15.3 days, the doubling time of the number of cases is from 15.7 days in Guinea to 30.2 days in Sierra Leone.

Customs and traditional medicine

Since there is a sufficient dose of the virus in the blood, human secretions, organs for infection, transmission of the virus through direct contact with a sick person is quite likely. The rapid transmission of infection among people in the current and previous outbreaks was facilitated by specific cultural practices that exist at the community level. In particular, this applies to funeral rites, often including touching and washing the deceased, embalming, delayed burial. Funeral traditions in African countries vary greatly due to the wide variety of ethnic groups, but in most, as the researchers conclude, they have a significant impact on the transmission of the infection. For example, in Guinea, these rituals are responsible for more than 60% of infections. Women care for the sick, which explains the sex differences in the spread of the infection, for example, in an outbreak in Uganda in 2001, about ⅔ of those infected were women. In the current outbreak in Sierra Leone, women were also the first to become infected.

In addition, during the spread of this infection, a number of cases of infection were documented in hospitals, including among medical personnel, which indicates the lack of readiness of the healthcare system in many African countries to fight the epidemic. Traditional medicine is also widely spread in Central and West Africa. Despite its many positive aspects, on a number of occasions its practitioners give a false explanation to the population for a viral infection and associate it with the curse or other factors.

Wild meat

The tissues and organs of infected animals contain enough virus to infect and, consequently, ingestion of it can lead to disease. The meat of wild animals is the main source of protein for the population of many African countries. For example, in Liberia, about 75% of the population uses it, in the Republic of the Congo – 88%. In addition, it is often illegally supplied to a number of non-African countries. Scientists emphasize that the virus can stay in meat for a long time, so when frozen to 4 °C, it can remain virulent for more than 50 days. However, the virus is inactivated by cooking (60 °C for 60 minutes), cooking (in boiling water for 5 minutes) or treatment with various disinfectants. There are also documented cases of infection of hunters who were in contact with animal meat, but did not eat it.

Socio-economic factors

Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone are countries with high annual urban population growth. The authors note that most of the outbreaks in West Africa are focused on urban populations. A significant contribution to this was made by the low availability of doctors, sources of clean drinking water and purification facilities for the urban population. Thus, in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, the provision with doctors is 0. 1; 0.01 and 0.02 per 1,000 people, respectively (in Ukraine, about 4 per 1,000 population), and only about ¼ of the population is provided with clean drinking water sources.

Another important factor in the spread of Ebola was the high level of population migration. Thus, about 11% of the population of West Africa does not live in their country of birth, and 54% of the Liberian population aged > 14 years old move from their original place of residence. A large proportion of the population of West African countries moves in connection with military conflicts and in search of better socio-economic conditions. The regional spread of the infection to Senegal and Nigeria is associated precisely with the uncontrolled movement of people from infected regions.

Lessons from the epidemic

According to scientists, the rapid spread of the Ebola epidemic currently observed in West Africa requires the development of special measures to prevent this in the future.