epidemic hemorrhagic fever, a severe viral infection marked by fever and bleeding. The disorder develops rapidly and is characterized initially by fever and muscle ache, possibly followed by hemorrhage, peripheral vascular collapse, hypovolemic shock, and acute kidney failure. The arbovirus or other pathogen is believed to be transmitted by mosquitoes, ticks, mites, or rodents. The pathophysiological characteristics of the hemorrhagic effect are uncertain, although it is assumed the disease organism causes damage to the lining of the capillaries. Kinds include Argentine hemorrhagic fever, Bolivian hemorrhagic fever, dengue fever, Lassa fever, yellow fever. See also specific viral infections.
