Korean Hemorrhagic Fever, also known as Korean Hemorrhagic Fever Syndrome, is a highly infectious viral disease caused by the Hantavirus. It was first identified in South Korea in the 1970s and has become a significant public health concern in some Asian countries. This febrile illness primarily affects humans and is transmitted through aerosolized excreta, such as urine, droppings, or saliva, of infected rodents, particularly the brown rat.
The symptoms of Korean Hemorrhagic Fever usually appear within one to two weeks after exposure and include fever, headache, abdominal pain, vomiting, muscle aches, and low blood pressure. As the disease progresses, patients may develop kidney dysfunction, hemorrhage in various organs, and respiratory distress, which can be life-threatening. In severe cases, the mortality rate can reach up to 15 percent.
The diagnosis of Korean Hemorrhagic Fever involves laboratory tests including serologic assays and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis to detect the presence of Hantavirus-specific antibodies or viral genetic material in blood or tissue samples. Supportive care is the mainstay of treatment for this condition as there are no specific antiviral drugs currently available for Hantavirus infections.
Prevention measures for Korean Hemorrhagic Fever revolve around reducing human exposure to infected rodents and their excreta. This includes practicing good hygiene, rodent control in living spaces, avoiding wild rodents and their habitats, and wearing protective clothing in high-risk areas. Additionally, health education and public awareness campaigns are vital to informing communities about the risks associated with this infectious disease and promoting preventive measures.
