Epidemiology
- Transmission: ROBO
(rodent born)
- Human
infection with arenaviruses is incidental to the natural cycle of the
viruses and occurs when an individual comes into contact with the
excretions or materials contaminated with the excretions of an infected
rodent, such as ingestion of contaminated food, or by direct contact of
abraded or broken skin with rodent excrement. Infection can also occur
by inhalation of tiny particles soiled with rodent urine or saliva
(aerosol transmission). The types of incidental contact depend on the
habits of both humans and rodents. For example, where the infected
rodent species prefers a field habitat, human infection is associated
with agricultural work. In areas where the rodent species’ habitat
includes human homes or other buildings, infection occurs in domestic
settings.
(http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/spb/mnpages/dispages/arena.htm)
- Clinical
aspects:
- Hemorrhagic
Fever -
First signs are fever, headache, and sore throat. Rash on the face
and neck appear along with an increase of malaise. The second week
of illness is characterized by gatrointestinal and urogenital tract
bleeding and a shock syndrome. Lassa fever has a mortality rate of
15-20%.
- Lymphocytic
choriomeningitis (LCM) - First
signs and symptoms are headache, fever, and malaise. A small
portion of patients develop meningitis or choriomeningitis.
- Prevention:
- The
basis of prevention lies in the control of human and rodent
contact. However, cultural practices, such as mining and
agriculture, allow for an interaction with rodents and humans. One
method of management is rodent trapping.
Viral
Properties
Viral Profile
New
Virus Info
Arenavirus
links
References
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