THE Brazilian hemorrhagic fever is a serious disease caused by avirusof the family Arenaviridae.It's a type of hemorrhagic fever, just like the yellow fever, malaria and hemorrhagic fever of dengue, therefore it presents as characteristic the presence of fever and hemorrhages.
The disease starts with symptoms that resemble other viral diseases, such as dengue and Zika, however, as it progresses, it can cause neurological impairment and even the patient's death. Extremely serious, this disease remained for more than 20 years without case records in Brazil, a scenario that changed on January 17, 2020, when a new case was confirmed.
How is the transmission of Brazilian hemorrhagic fever?
Brazilian hemorrhagic fever can be transmitted from one person to another when there is prolonged and close contact with the sick patient. Transmission also occurs in hospital environments, when individual protection rules are not properly followed, leaving the individual exposed to secretions and excretions from sick patients.
It can also be transmitted through contact with secretions and excretions, like saliva and urine, from wild rodents infecteds. These animals are reservoirs of the disease-causing virus.
Read too: Zika: a disease transmitted by Aedes Aegypti
What are the symptoms of Brazilian hemorrhagic fever?
The symptoms of Brazilian hemorrhagic fever usually start 6 to 14 days after the person's contact with the causative agent. The symptoms are not very specific and, therefore, the disease is often confused with other illnesses, such as dengue, hepatitis and leptospirosis.Among the main symptoms that can be attributed to hemorrhagic fever, according to the Ministry of Health, are:
Fever;
malaise;
Headache;
Stomach ache;
Pain behind the eyes;
Body pain;
Red spots on the body;
Dizziness;
Light sensitivity;
Cold;
Mucosal bleeding;
Neurological changes (mental confusion, seizures and behavior change).
How is Brazilian hemorrhagic fever treated?
Brazilian hemorrhagic fever does not have a specific treatment. Thus, the patient with the disease receives treatment only for the symptoms presented. Individuals with suspected or confirmed disease should stay in single rooms during treatment to prevent the spread of the disease and should avoid circulating in common areas of the hospital.
Read too: Viruses: all about diseases caused by viruses
Tips to prevent Brazilian hemorrhagic fever
Brazilian hemorrhagic fever is a serious disease and, therefore, it is essential to take some precautions. Among the main ways to prevention, they are:
Avoid contact with the patient;
Avoid contact with wild rodents;
Avoid places where wild rodents are present;
Hospital employees must wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, gowns, masks and eyewear.
