Black typhus is another name for Bolivian hemorrhagic fever, a serious illness caused by the Machupo virus.
The Machupo virus is a member of the Arenaviridae family, specifically belonging to the Tacaribe-LCMV complex. This complex also includes viruses responsible for other hemorrhagic fevers, such as:
- Lassa fever
- Junin hemorrhagic fever (Argentine hemorrhagic fever)
- Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV)
Bolivian hemorrhagic fever, or black typhus, is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents, particularly the vesper mouse (Calomys callosus). Transmission can occur via:
- Inhalation: Breathing in aerosolized virus particles from rodent urine, feces, or saliva.
- Direct contact: Touching contaminated surfaces or materials.
- Consumption: Eating food or drinking water contaminated with rodent excrement.
- Person-to-person transmission: While less common, it can occur through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals.
Symptoms of Bolivian hemorrhagic fever/black typhus typically include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Hemorrhagic manifestations (bleeding)
The disease can be severe and potentially fatal, requiring supportive care and, in some cases, the use of convalescent plasma (plasma from recovered patients containing antibodies against the virus).
