Argentine hemorrhagic fever, an acute febrile viral illness caused by an arenavirus transmitted to humans by contact with or inhalation of aerosolized excreta of infected rodents. Initially, it is characterized by chills, fever, headache, myalgia, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and a general feeling of malaise. As the disease progresses, the victim may develop a high fever, dehydration, hypotension, flushed skin, abnormally slow heartbeat, bleeding from the gums and internal tissues, hematuria, and hematemesis. There may be involvement of the central nervous system, shock, and pulmonary edema. There is no specific treatment for the disease other than hydration, rest, warmth, and adequate nutrition. Rarely, IV fluids and dialysis are necessary. Usually, the prognosis is complete recovery. See also Arenavirus, Bolivian hemorrhagic fever, Lassa fever.
