Lassa fever
Introduction.
Lassa fever is a serious viral infection resulting in hemorrhage.
It has a mortality rate of 50%.
Summary
- Cause: Lassa fever virus
- Microscopy: pleomorphic enveloped ssRNA
- Transmission: Inhalation, ingestion, fomites
- Reservoir: Rodents
- Symptoms: fever, petechiae, visceral hemorrhage
- Complications: liver, spleen necrosis, heart damage
- Treatment: ribavirin, supportive care
References/Links
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http://www.news-medical.net/images/Lassa%20Virus.jpg
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http://www.fit-for-travel.de/reisemedizin/bilder/krankheit/lassa_blutungen.jpg