Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers
Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers are a group of illnesses caused by several distinct families of viruses. The term "viral hemorrhagic fever" describes illnesses such as ebola that affect multiple organ systems. The illnesses associated with these viruses range from mild to life threatening.

The viruses associated with VHFs do not naturally reside in humans, but humans can become infected when they come into contact with an animal that hosts the virus. People can transmit some of these diseases to others through close contact.

Rodents and arthropods are frequently the hosts of these viruses. However, the hosts of some viruses, including the ebola virus, are not known.

Traditionally, the presence of each of these viruses was contained to the area where the host animal lived. But this is beginning to change due to the increasing frequency with which people travel.

With a few exceptions, there are no cures or established drug treatments for VHFs.