Epidemic hemorrhagic fever

Epidemic hemorrhagic fever is a naturally occurring zoonotic infectious disease primarily transmitted by rodents. In China, the main host animals and sources of infection are the striped field mouse and brown rat. The transmission routes are diverse, with animal-origin transmission being the primary method.

The population is generally susceptible, with a higher incidence in young to middle-aged males. The incubation period ranges from 4 to 45 days, mostly between 7 and 14 days. Patients experience a sudden onset of symptoms, with body temperature typically ranging from 38-40 C, lasting for about 4 to 6 days. Most patients have headaches, lower back pain, eye socket pain, generalized muscle and joint pain, and some may experience digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Skin and mucous membrane bleeding may occur, accompanied by bleeding symptoms such as hematemesis and hemoptysis. A small percentage of patients may develop secondary shock, leading to secondary kidney damage, and death may occur due to uremia and its complications.

Effective preventive measures mainly involve a comprehensive strategy focusing on rodent control and the immunization of key populations. The inactivated vaccine developed in China is an effective means of personal prevention against epidemic hemorrhagic fever, and individuals engaged in outdoor work should be immunized. The epidemic hemorrhagic fever vaccine is included in the national immunization program, and immunization is carried out in epidemic areas for key populations based on the trend of the disease's prevalence.