Prevent Rift Valley
Fever
Rift Valley Fever is a member of a group of viral infections known as viral hemorrhagic fevers. They are grouped by a common pathophysiology rather than etiology and are caused by viruses from different families. Members of the Phlebovirus genus cause Rift Valley Fever and occurs primarily in Africa. It is usually a minor febrile illness and fatal in less than 1 percent of the cases.
Instructions
1. Use caution when traveling in areas with known animal hosts and insect vectors, especially those with known outbreaks. These areas should be avoided if possible, especially when they may be contaminated with excretions from animal reservoirs. The most effective way of preventing the spread of Rift Valley Fever is to avoid being bitten by infected animals because a vaccine is not available.
2. Eradicate rodent and arthropod vectors. Large scale control of these populations is frequently impractical in poor countries where Rift Valley Fever is endemic.
3. Wear long sleeves and pants when traveling to Africa. Use insect repellents and mosquito netting to prevent bites from blood-sucking insects. You should also avoid rodents because their bites are dangerous, as well.
4. Take special precautions when handling potential intermediate hosts such as slaughtered livestock or primates for scientific research. Sick primates should be carefully evaluated. Blood and tissue from infected animals is particularly hazardous, especially aborted fetuses.
5. Implement infectious disease precautions. Practice barrier nursing by isolating infected patients, sterilizing equipment and disinfecting facilities.
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