An overview of the viral haemorrhagic fevers for the primary care doctor

S Afr Fam Pract (2004). 2020 Jun 26;62(1):e1-e6. doi: 10.4102/safp.v62i1.5116.

Abstract

The viral haemorrhagic fevers are infectious diseases that often cause life-threatening illnesses. These diseases are common in the tropical areas of the world, and travel history to an endemic area together with recognising signs and symptoms is essential to aid diagnosis. Treatment is often supportive, and infection control measures need to be instituted early at the point of entry. In this article, we will provide an approach to a patient with viral haemorrhagic fevers in a primary healthcare setting.

Keywords: Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever; Ebola virus disease; Lassa fever; Lujo virus; Rift Valley fever; travel history.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Hemorrhagic Fevers, Viral* / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Primary Health Care