Haemorrhagic fevers

Definition

An uncommon type of fever caught in the tropics.

Pathophysiology

Caused by a variety of RNA viruses, including Lassa fever, yellow fever and Hanta viruses.

Clinical features

• Fevers, myalgia, malaise
• Petechiae and bleeding gums can progress to haemorrhage.

Management

Isolate until viral serology can be confirmed. Support with fluids and nutrition. Ribavarin helps in Lassa fever and some others.