A brief overview of the types, treatment, and genetic advancements of hemorrhagic fever viruses.
This paper examines how the emergence of the hemorrhagic fever viruses (HFVs) in the modern medical community has created significant fear in respect to the unique properties of these diseases, as well as growing concern over their spread and the lack of effective treatment options for the most severe members of the HFV family. It looks at how the understanding of HFVs is increasing significantly, especially with the inclusion of genetic modifiers. It provides a brief overview of the properties of select HFV members and the advances in genetic medicine currently under investigation as treatment options.
Outline
Introduction
What Is Hemorrhagic Fever Disease?
The Role of Genetics as a Tool Against HFVs
Outline
Introduction
What Is Hemorrhagic Fever Disease?
The Role of Genetics as a Tool Against HFVs
“The Ebola virus is spread through direct fluid contact, and there is no “carrier” state through which an individual who does not themselves manifest symptoms can pass the disease to another person. There is a possibility that the disease is an aerosol (passed through the air) but the current recorded symptoms of this HFV define exposure only through fluid contact. 21 days after initial contact, the patient manifests symptoms of headache, body ache, fever, and weakness. If the disease goes unchecked, the patient can develop internal hemorrhaging. It is this late stage of the disease which leads to the highest mortality conditions. Patents who reach this hemorrhaging stage tend to succumb to Ebola.”