Hemorrhagic fever is caused by –
**Core Concept**
Hemorrhagic fevers are a group of severe viral illnesses characterized by fever, hemorrhaging, and multi-organ dysfunction. They are caused by viruses from the families Filoviridae and Arenaviridae, which are primarily spread through contact with infected bodily fluids.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Ebola virus is a member of the Filoviridae family and is one of the most notorious causes of hemorrhagic fever. The virus replicates in the host cells, leading to the production of viral proteins that disrupt the host's immune response and cause damage to the endothelial cells, resulting in increased vascular permeability and subsequent hemorrhaging. Ebola virus is transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, sweat, and saliva.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** West-Mile fever is not a recognized cause of hemorrhagic fever. It is possible that the question intended to refer to "West Nile fever," which is a mosquito-borne viral disease that causes fever, encephalitis, and meningitis, but not hemorrhagic fever.
**Option B:** Sandfly fever is a viral illness caused by the sandfly fever virus, which is transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies. While it can cause fever and other symptoms, it is not associated with hemorrhagic fever.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because only one of the listed viruses (Ebola virus) is a cause of hemorrhagic fever.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to recognize that hemorrhagic fevers, including those caused by Ebola virus, require prompt medical attention and isolation to prevent transmission to healthcare workers and others.
**β Correct Answer:** C. Ebola virus