Comprehensive review of bolivian hemorrhagic fever

Abstract

Introduction: Bolivian hemorrhagic fever, caused by the Machupo virus, is a severe zoonotic disease identified in the 1960s in Beni, Bolivia. Transmitted by rodents, it has high mortality and epidemic risk. This review covers its epidemiology, transmission, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, informing strategies for local and global control. Methodology: For this review, peer-reviewed studies addressing epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical aspects, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention in English and Spanish were selected. Articles that were not peer-reviewed, redundant, or geographically limited were excluded. Database searches used specific keywords and boolean operators to identify relevant studies, reviewing titles, abstracts, and full texts for precise inclusion. Results: This is a severe zoonotic disease with significant public health implications. Understanding its epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention is crucial for developing effective control and prevention strategies. International cooperation and ongoing research are essential to address knowledge gaps and improve disease management. Discussion: Critical analysis of the findings reveals consensus on its high prevalence in Beni, Bolivia, and transmission by rodents, but there are inconsistencies in annual data and potential secondary transmission. Diagnostic technologies are effective but limited in rural areas. Ribavirin shows mixed results. Ongoing research and public health improvements are essential.