Viral hemorrhagic fever in the tropics: Report from the task force on tropical diseases by the World Federation of Societies of Intensive and Critical Care Medicine

Abstract

Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) are a group of illnesses caused by four families of viruses namely Arenaviruses, Filoviruses, Bunyaviruses, and Flaviviruses. Humans are not the natural reservoir for any of these organisms and acquire the disease through vectors from animal reservoirs. In some conditions human to human transmission is possible increasing the risk to healthy individuals in the vicinity, more so to Health Care Workers (HCW). The pathogenesis of VHF, though poorly understood, varies according to the viruses involved. The resultant microvascular damage leads to increased vascular permeability, organ dysfunction and even death. The management is generally supportive but antiviral agents are of benefit in certain circumstances.

Keywords: Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever; Dengue; Hantavirus; Kyasanur Forest disease; Lassa fever; Marburgvirus and Ebolavirus; Rift Valley fever; Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHF); Yellow fever; Zika.