Chapare Hemorrhagic Fever

Chapare hemorrhagic fever is a rare but very serious viral illness caused by the Chapare virus, which belongs to the mammarenavirus group in the Arenaviridae family. The virus was first identified in Bolivia and causes a high-fever illness with bleeding and organ problems, similar to some other South American hemorrhagic fevers. Wikipedia+1

Chapare hemorrhagic fever (CHHF) is a very rare but serious viral infection caused by Chapare virus, a New-World arenavirus first recognized in Bolivia. The virus is probably spread mainly from infected wild rodents to humans and can then spread from person to person through contact with blood or other body fluids. People usually develop high fever, headache, muscle pain, stomach problems, and then bleeding and organ failure in severe cases. At present there is no specific antiviral medicine or vaccine proven for Chapare hemorrhagic fever. Treatment is focused on early diagnosis, strict infection control, and intensive supportive care in hospital to keep the person alive while the body fights the virus. MalaCards+3CDC+3PMC+3

The infection is thought to start when a person breathes in tiny droplets of dust or air that contain the virus from the urine, saliva, or droppings of infected wild rodents. In some outbreaks, the virus has also spread directly from one person to another through contact with blood or other body fluids, especially in hospitals. World Health Organization+1

Only a small number of human cases and outbreaks have been reported, all in Bolivia, but the disease can be very deadly, with about half or more of known patients dying. There is no specific antiviral medicine proven to cure Chapare hemorrhagic fever yet, so treatment is focused on early diagnosis and strong supportive care in hospital. CDC+1

Other names

Doctors and researchers use several different names for this illness. The most common are “Chapare hemorrhagic fever,” “Chapare virus disease,” and “Chapare mammarenavirus infection.” All of these names refer to the same condition caused by the Chapare virus. Wikipedia+1

Sometimes it is also grouped under the broader term “Bolivian hemorrhagic fever,” because Bolivia has two closely related viruses, Machupo and Chapare, that can both cause hemorrhagic fever. In scientific writing, the virus itself is often written as Chapare mammarenavirus or Mammarenavirus chapareense. ScienceDirect+1

Types

Doctors do not officially divide Chapare hemorrhagic fever into many formal “types,” but in practice they think about a few patterns that help them describe and manage the disease. One useful way to think about types is by how the person became infected and how severe the illness becomes. GOV.UK+1

One type is sporadic rodent-borne disease, where a person catches the virus directly from infected rodents in rural or forested areas. These are single or small clusters of cases without large spread in communities. World Health Organization+1

Another type is outbreak-associated disease, where several people in the same area become sick around the same time, often with some cases linked to exposure in clinics or hospitals. In these situations, there may be both infections from rodents and infections from contact with sick patients. PubMed+1

A third type is healthcare-associated (nosocomial) disease, which happens in doctors, nurses, or other staff who care for Chapare patients without full protection. These cases usually come from contact with blood, body fluids, or needle injuries. Infectious Diseases Journal+1

Finally, doctors sometimes describe mild, moderate, and severe clinical forms. Mild forms have fever and body pain without much bleeding, moderate forms show some bleeding and low platelets, and severe forms have shock, heavy bleeding, and organ failure. This “type” system is based on how sick the person becomes, not on different strains of the virus. Orpha+1

Causes and risk factors

Chapare hemorrhagic fever has one direct cause: infection with the Chapare virus. However, many different situations increase a person’s chance of being infected, so we can think of these as twenty practical “causes” or risk factors linked to exposure and spread. CDC+1

1. Infection with Chapare virus itself
   The true cause of the disease is the Chapare virus entering the body, multiplying in the blood and tissues, and damaging blood vessels and organs. Without exposure to the virus, the disease does not occur. Wikipedia+1

2. Contact with infected rodents
   The main source of the virus is believed to be certain wild rodents in Bolivia, probably small rice-rat species. Touching contaminated rodent urine, droppings, or nesting material, especially in houses or fields, can bring the virus close to the human nose and mouth. World Health Organization+1

3. Breathing contaminated dust in rodent-infested areas
   When floors, barns, or grain stores with rodent droppings are swept or cleaned, tiny particles can rise into the air. If these particles contain Chapare virus and are inhaled, they can infect the lungs and then spread through the body. This pattern is known for similar arenaviruses and is strongly suspected in Chapare. Pan American Health Organization+1

4. Living in or visiting endemic regions of Bolivia
   People who live in or travel to the Chapare region, Caranavi, or areas around La Paz where the virus has been detected are at higher risk simply because the virus and reservoir animals are present there. Most reported human cases so far have come from these regions. CDC+1

5. Rural farming and agricultural work
   Farmers and field workers often store grain and food in ways that attract rodents, and they spend long hours in fields and storage areas where rodents live. This close and repeated contact with rodent environments increases the chance of breathing in or touching the virus. ScienceDirect+1

6. Poor housing conditions with rodent infestation
   Homes made with gaps in walls or roofs, or houses with open food storage, may allow rodents to enter, nest, and leave droppings inside. Families living in such conditions have a higher background risk of exposure to rodent-borne viruses, including Chapare. Pan American Health Organization+1

7. Cleaning rodent-contaminated spaces without protection
   Sweeping floors, barns, or storage rooms that contain rodent droppings without using masks, gloves, or wet cleaning methods can stir up infectious particles. This is a practical and important cause of exposure in many arenavirus infections. Pan American Health Organization+1

8. Handling food or water contaminated by rodents
   If rodents walk on stored food or contaminate water with urine or feces, the virus may enter the mouth when people eat or drink. This may not be the main route, but it is considered a realistic risk, especially where food is stored in open containers. World Health Organization+1

9. Direct contact with blood of an infected patient
   During outbreaks, several healthcare workers became infected after caring for Chapare patients, which shows that touching or being splashed with infected blood is a major cause of human-to-human spread. This is especially risky during emergency procedures or when bleeding is present. Infectious Diseases Journal+1

10. Contact with other body fluids (vomit, urine, respiratory secretions)
    The virus has been detected in urine, respiratory samples, and sometimes in semen, which means that contact with these fluids can also spread infection. Health workers and close family members who clean patients or handle their waste are at risk if they do not use protection. New England Journal of Medicine+1

11. Inadequate use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
    When masks, gloves, gowns, and eye protection are not used correctly, or are not available, the risk of infection in clinics and hospitals rises. Reports from outbreaks stress that consistent PPE use is a key way to prevent new cases, which implies that lack of PPE is an important cause of spread. GOV.UK+1

12. Needle-stick injuries and sharp instrument accidents
    Some documented healthcare worker infections likely resulted from injuries with needles or other sharp tools contaminated with blood from Chapare patients. A single accidental puncture through the skin can deliver enough virus to cause disease. Infectious Diseases Journal+1

13. Laboratory exposure to Chapare virus samples
    People who work in laboratories that handle Chapare virus must follow strict biosafety rules. If these rules are not followed, accidental contact with cultures, blood samples, or aerosols in the lab can lead to infection. PLOS+1

14. Close, unprotected caregiving at home
    Family members who provide direct care—washing the patient, cleaning vomit or blood, or sharing bed linens—without gloves or masks may be exposed to the virus. This kind of close, repeated contact is a recognized risk in many viral hemorrhagic fevers and has been described in Chapare outbreaks. Infectious Diseases Journal+1

15. Traditional funeral or burial practices involving body contact
    If people touch or wash the body of someone who died of Chapare hemorrhagic fever without adequate protection, they may come into contact with blood or fluids that still contain the virus. This has been a known risk factor in other hemorrhagic fevers and is considered a concern for Chapare as well. IBSA Foundation+1

16. Misdiagnosis as dengue or other common infections
    In areas where dengue is common, Chapare cases may be mistaken for dengue at first because the early symptoms are similar. If healthcare workers do not suspect Chapare, they may not use full protective equipment, which can lead to extra exposures and act as an indirect cause of further cases. ASTMH+1

17. Living near habitats of the suspected reservoir rodent
    Studies have found Chapare virus in rodents caught near the homes of patients, suggesting that people whose houses border fields, forests, or riverbanks where these rodents live may have a higher baseline risk of exposure. New England Journal of Medicine+1

18. Limited access to public health information
    When communities are not aware that Chapare virus exists, or do not know how it spreads, they are less likely to control rodents or use protective equipment around sick people. This lack of information supports conditions where the virus can silently spread. GOV.UK+1

19. Weak infection-control systems in healthcare facilities
    Hospitals or clinics that lack isolation rooms, waste management systems, or training programs for viral hemorrhagic fevers are more likely to experience healthcare-associated Chapare transmissions. Strengthening these systems has been a major recommendation after outbreaks. GOV.UK+1

20. Poverty and overcrowding in affected regions
    Poverty can lead to overcrowded housing, poor building quality, and difficulty keeping homes free of rodents. These social conditions do not cause the virus, but they make it easier for rodents to live close to humans and for infections to occur and spread. ScienceDirect+1

Symptoms

Chapare hemorrhagic fever usually begins after an incubation period of about 9 to 19 days, during which the person feels well. Then, a sudden fever and general illness develops and can progress to bleeding and organ failure in severe cases. Many symptoms are similar to other New World arenavirus hemorrhagic fevers. Wikipedia+1

1. Fever
   Almost all patients develop a high fever, often with chills. The fever is a sign that the immune system is reacting to the virus circulating in the blood and tissues. Orpha+1

2. Severe tiredness (malaise)
   People often feel extremely weak and tired, with little energy to stand or walk. This deep fatigue comes from the body fighting widespread infection and from the effect of inflammation on muscles and the brain. PLOS+1

3. Headache
   Headache is common and may be strong and constant. It may be caused by fever, dehydration, and inflammation in the blood vessels and lining around the brain. PubMed+1

4. Muscle and joint pain
   Many patients report aching muscles and joints, especially in the back and legs. This is similar to other arenavirus infections and may be due to both direct viral effects and immune system activity. PLOS+1

5. Nausea and vomiting
   Nausea, sometimes followed by vomiting, is frequent. This may be from direct infection of the stomach and intestines, from toxins released by damaged cells, or from low blood pressure. Wikipedia+1

6. Abdominal pain
   Many people feel pain in the belly, sometimes with tenderness when doctors press on the abdomen. This may reflect irritation of the gut, enlarged organs, or bleeding inside the digestive tract in severe disease. Orpha+1

7. Diarrhea
   Some patients have loose stools or diarrhea. This symptom can cause dehydration and loss of salts, which then worsens weakness and blood pressure problems. Wikipedia+1

8. Bleeding from gums or nose
   As the infection damages blood vessels and lowers platelet counts, people can start to bleed from the gums, nose (nosebleeds), or from small skin spots. This bleeding is a key sign of hemorrhagic fever. MalaCards+1

9. Skin spots and bruises (petechiae and ecchymoses)
   Small red or purple spots and larger bruises may appear on the skin without clear injury. These marks show that tiny blood vessels are leaking and that the blood is not clotting normally. ScienceDirect+1

10. Red or painful eyes
    Some patients develop red eyes or pain behind the eyes, sometimes with sensitivity to light. This may be due to inflammation in the eye tissues and small hemorrhages in the conjunctiva. IBSA Foundation+1

11. Shortness of breath or chest discomfort
    In more serious cases, fluid in the lungs, low blood pressure, or heart strain can make breathing difficult. Patients may breathe fast, feel tightness in the chest, or need oxygen support. PubMed+1

12. Low blood pressure and signs of shock
    When blood vessels leak and fluid leaves the bloodstream, blood pressure can drop. People may feel dizzy, cold, or confused, with rapid heart rate. This “shock” state is life-threatening and needs urgent care. Orpha+1

13. Confusion or changes in behavior
    Some Chapare patients develop confusion, agitation, or difficulty thinking clearly. This may be caused by the virus affecting the brain, by low blood pressure, or by severe infection of many organs. PubMed+1

14. Seizures (convulsions)
    In severe disease, seizures can occur. These are sudden bursts of abnormal electrical activity in the brain and are a very serious sign that often goes along with high mortality in hemorrhagic fevers. MalaCards+1

15. Prolonged recovery with weakness and neurological problems
    People who survive Chapare hemorrhagic fever may need weeks to months to recover fully. Some survivors report ongoing headaches, weakness, or nerve-related symptoms, showing that the disease can have long-term effects even after the acute phase ends. PubMed+1

Diagnostic tests

Because Chapare hemorrhagic fever is rare and looks similar to other serious infections, doctors must use a mix of clinical examination and special laboratory tests to make a correct diagnosis. In practice, the disease is confirmed by detecting the virus or its genetic material, while other tests help check organ function and rule out other causes. PubMed+1

1. Full physical examination and vital signs (physical exam)
   The doctor first checks temperature, heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure, and looks for general signs such as weakness, dehydration, and confusion. This basic exam shows how sick the person is and whether they might be in shock. Orpha+1

2. Inspection of skin and mucous membranes (physical/manual exam)
   The skin, gums, inside of the mouth, and eyes are examined for bleeding spots, bruises, rashes, or redness. These findings help doctors decide if a hemorrhagic fever is likely and if the blood is not clotting properly. ScienceDirect+1

3. Abdominal examination (manual palpation)
   The doctor gently presses on the abdomen to feel for pain, enlarged liver, or enlarged spleen. Tenderness or enlarged organs can suggest involvement of the liver and spleen, which is common in severe viral infections including arenavirus hemorrhagic fevers. MalaCards+1

4. Neurological bedside examination and Glasgow Coma Scale (manual exam)
   Basic tests of alertness, orientation, pupil response, and limb strength are used to see whether the brain and nerves are affected. Measuring the Glasgow Coma Scale score helps track any worsening of consciousness, which is important in Chapare and other hemorrhagic fevers with possible brain involvement. PubMed+1

5. Orthostatic blood pressure test (manual/physical test)
   Blood pressure and pulse are measured while the patient lies down and again when they stand. A big drop in pressure or a big rise in heart rate suggests volume loss and early shock, which are common in severe hemorrhagic fevers. ScienceDirect+1

6. Capillary refill time (manual circulation test)
   The doctor presses on the fingernail or skin and then observes how quickly the color returns. Slow capillary refill suggests poor blood flow to the skin and can be a simple early sign of shock in hemorrhagic infections. ScienceDirect+1

7. Complete blood count (CBC) with platelets (lab test)
   A CBC measures white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. In Chapare hemorrhagic fever, doctors may see low white cell counts, anemia, and especially low platelets, which fit with the bleeding tendency and are typical of many arenavirus infections. MalaCards+1

8. Coagulation profile (PT/INR, aPTT, fibrinogen) (lab test)
   These tests show how well the blood can clot. Abnormal results, such as prolonged clotting times or low fibrinogen, suggest that the virus and the body’s response are damaging the clotting system, which explains the bleeding. Orpha+1

9. Liver function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin) (lab test)
   These blood tests measure enzymes and pigments released when liver cells are injured. Raised levels are common in viral hemorrhagic fevers and help to show that the liver is inflamed or damaged in Chapare infection. Wikipedia+1

10. Kidney function tests and electrolytes (creatinine, urea, salts) (lab test)
    The kidneys can be damaged by low blood pressure, dehydration, and the virus itself. Measuring creatinine, urea, and blood salts helps doctors decide about fluids, dialysis, and the overall severity of illness. Orpha+1

11. Serum lactate and blood gas analysis (lab test)
    High lactate levels and abnormal blood gases show that tissues are not getting enough oxygen, often because of shock. These tests are especially useful in intensive care to guide fluid therapy and oxygen support in Chapare and similar diseases. ScienceDirect+1

12. Real-time RT-PCR for Chapare virus (pathogen-specific lab test)
    Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) detects the genetic material (RNA) of Chapare virus in blood or other samples. This is the main confirmatory test and was used in the 2019 Bolivian outbreak to prove that Chapare virus was the cause of the hemorrhagic fever cases. PubMed+1

13. Viral sequencing and characterization (advanced lab test)
    In specialized laboratories, scientists can sequence the virus to confirm that it is Chapare and to study how it is related to other strains. This is not needed for routine care but is important for outbreak investigation and public-health research. PLOS+1

14. Serologic tests (IgM and IgG antibodies) (lab/pathological test)
    Antibody tests look for the body’s immune response to Chapare virus. IgM antibodies suggest recent infection, and IgG suggests past exposure. For rare viruses like Chapare, such tests are usually developed in research or reference labs rather than in everyday hospitals. New England Journal of Medicine+1

15. Tests for other causes of hemorrhagic fever (dengue, other arenaviruses) (lab panel)
    Because early symptoms of Chapare look like dengue and other viral infections, doctors often test for these at the same time. A negative dengue test in a very sick patient from an endemic area may raise suspicion for Chapare, especially during a known outbreak. Pan American Health Organization+1

16. Blood culture (lab test to rule out bacterial sepsis)
    Blood cultures are taken to see if bacteria are present in the bloodstream. While Chapare is viral and will not grow in these cultures, it is important to rule out bacterial sepsis, which can look similar and needs different treatment. ScienceDirect+1

17. Electrocardiogram (ECG) (electrodiagnostic test)
    An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart. In Chapare hemorrhagic fever, an ECG helps detect heart strain, rhythm problems, or signs of poor blood flow caused by shock, which can guide decisions about fluids and medicines. ScienceDirect+1

18. Electroencephalogram (EEG) (electrodiagnostic test)
    An EEG records electrical activity in the brain. In patients with seizures or confusion, this test can confirm seizure activity and help doctors judge how severely the brain is affected by the infection or by low blood pressure and low oxygen. PubMed+1

19. Chest X-ray (imaging test)
    A chest X-ray shows whether there is fluid in the lungs, pneumonia, or heart enlargement. In severe Chapare infection, lung involvement and fluid overload can appear, and the X-ray helps guide breathing support and fluid management. ScienceDirect+1

20. Abdominal ultrasound (imaging test)
    Ultrasound can detect an enlarged liver or spleen and fluid in the abdomen. These findings support the diagnosis of a systemic hemorrhagic fever and help monitor complications, especially when CT or MRI are not available in rural areas. MalaCards+1

General principles of treatment and care

Doctors treat Chapare hemorrhagic fever in a similar way to other viral hemorrhagic fevers: they stabilize breathing, blood pressure, and body fluids, prevent or treat bleeding, and support each organ that is failing. International agencies like WHO and CDC explain that there is no specific antiviral treatment for Chapare virus yet, so supportive care is the main therapy. This includes giving fluids and electrolytes, medicines to keep blood pressure stable, treatment for pain, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, and management of any secondary infections. Many patients need care in an intensive care unit (ICU) where staff can monitor them minute by minute and use machines such as ventilators if needed. MD Searchlight+3World Health Organization+3CDC+3

Non-pharmacological (non-drug) treatments and therapies

Below are key supportive, non-drug measures used in hospital care. These are done by trained health-care teams; they are not home treatments.

Strict isolation and infection-prevention measures
Patients with Chapare hemorrhagic fever are cared for in special isolation areas. Health-care workers use gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection to stop the virus from spreading through blood or body fluids. Surfaces and equipment are carefully disinfected and waste is handled as infectious material. This kind of infection-prevention and control is strongly recommended for viral hemorrhagic fevers to protect staff, family, and other patients. World Health Organization+2CDC+2

Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for health workers and caregivers
Masks, face shields, gloves, and impermeable gowns are used every time staff enter the patient’s room or handle blood samples. PPE forms a barrier, so tiny droplets or splashes containing virus cannot reach the skin or mucous membranes. Correct putting on and taking off of PPE and hand hygiene are essential, because many Chapare virus infections have occurred in health-care workers during outbreaks. New England Journal of Medicine+2Vax-Before-Travel+2

Careful fluid balance monitoring
Even before medications are chosen, nurses and doctors monitor how much fluid goes into and out of the body. They measure urine, vomit, diarrhea, and blood loss, and they check blood pressure, heart rate, and lab tests. The goal is to prevent both dehydration and fluid overload, which can worsen shock or cause lung swelling. Careful fluid monitoring is a central part of supportive care in all viral hemorrhagic fevers. CDC+2MD Searchlight+2

Oxygen therapy and respiratory support positioning
Non-drug measures like giving oxygen through nasal cannula or mask, and positioning the patient with the head of the bed raised, help keep oxygen levels adequate. In early disease, this may be enough to prevent respiratory failure. These simple physical measures are described in general viral hemorrhagic fever and critical-care guidance as first steps before more invasive ventilation is needed. MD Searchlight+1

Mechanical ventilation for severe lung or brain involvement
If the patient develops respiratory failure, shock, or coma, doctors may need to place a breathing tube (intubation) and connect the patient to a mechanical ventilator. This is not a “drug,” but a machine-based life support therapy that keeps oxygen and carbon dioxide at safe levels while the underlying infection is treated supportively. Mechanical ventilation is reported in case reviews of Chapare virus and other arenaviruses when patients are critically ill. GOV.UK+1

Renal replacement therapy (dialysis) for kidney failure
Some patients with severe viral hemorrhagic fevers develop acute kidney injury. In those cases, dialysis machines can temporarily replace kidney function by filtering waste and extra fluid from the blood. This is again a supportive, non-drug intervention taken from general critical-care practice for multi-organ failure rather than a Chapare-specific treatment. MD Searchlight+2PubMed+2

Physical temperature-control measures
While medicines like acetaminophen may be used, nurses also use non-drug methods such as light clothing, fans, or tepid sponging to help control very high fever. These measures aim to reduce discomfort and decrease metabolic stress until the infection improves. General guidance on viral hemorrhagic fevers and sepsis emphasizes basic physical temperature control along with medicines. MD Searchlight+1

Local pressure and wound care to reduce bleeding
In hemorrhagic fevers, small needle punctures or minor skin breaks can bleed excessively. Gentle pressure dressings, elevation of bleeding limbs, and careful wound care help reduce blood loss without drugs. These measures are part of standard supportive management for bleeding disorders and have been applied in arenavirus hemorrhagic fevers. CDC+1

Nutritional support and assisted feeding
Many patients lose appetite, vomit often, or are too weak to eat. In hospital, nutrition is managed with easy-to-digest liquids, small frequent meals, or feeding tubes if the person cannot swallow safely. Adequate energy and protein intake helps maintain muscle mass, supports immune function, and aids recovery, as shown in broader critical-illness nutrition research. PubMed+2Springer Medizin+2

Early physiotherapy and gentle mobilization
After the most dangerous phase, physiotherapists may start very gentle exercises in bed and later help the patient sit, stand, and walk. Early mobilization reduces muscle wasting, improves circulation, and supports long-term physical function in critically ill patients, although it does not directly treat the virus. ScienceDirect+1

Psychological support for patients and families
Chapare hemorrhagic fever is frightening, and isolation from family can cause intense anxiety. Talking therapies, clear explanations, and emotional support help patients cope and can improve cooperation with medical care. For families, counseling and honest updates reduce stress and may support adherence to prevention measures. Psychological support is increasingly recognized as part of holistic hemorrhagic fever care. CDC+1

Community measures: safe burials and environmental control
When a patient dies, safe burial practices that avoid direct contact with body fluids are essential. In communities where Chapare virus circulates, rodents are controlled, food is stored in rodent-proof containers, and houses are kept clean to reduce contact with rodent urine and droppings. These community actions are critical non-drug strategies for preventing new infections. World Health Organization+2Vax-Before-Travel+2

Drug treatments

Very important safety note

For Chapare hemorrhagic fever, there is currently no FDA-approved drug specifically for this virus, and there is no widely accepted “standard antiviral cure.” All medicines are used to support the body (for example, to control blood pressure, pain, or seizures) or are given in research settings. Any drug choice and dosing must be made by expert doctors in an ICU, not by patients themselves. CDC+2ScienceDirect+2

Below are examples of medicine types used in hospital care; they are not instructions for self-treatment.

Broad-spectrum intravenous fluids and electrolytes
Crystalloid solutions such as normal saline or balanced electrolyte solutions are infused to correct dehydration and shock. These fluids help restore blood volume so the heart can pump effectively and organs receive oxygen. Electrolytes like sodium and potassium are adjusted based on lab tests. Fluid therapy is highlighted by CDC as a key part of supportive care for Chapare and other viral hemorrhagic fevers. CDC+1

Blood products (packed red cells, platelets, plasma)
When bleeding is severe or lab tests show low red cells or platelets, doctors may transfuse blood components. Packed cells raise hemoglobin and improve oxygen delivery, platelets help form clots, and plasma supplies clotting factors. These products can be life-saving in hemorrhagic illnesses, although they also carry risks such as transfusion reactions, so they are used with close monitoring. GIDEON+1

Vasopressor medicines (for example, norepinephrine)
If blood pressure stays dangerously low despite fluids, ICU teams use vasopressors given through a central vein to tighten blood vessels and support circulation. These medicines help maintain perfusion to the brain and vital organs. They are standard in shock management, including shock caused by viral hemorrhagic fevers, but require careful dosing and continuous monitoring. MD Searchlight+1

Antipyretic and pain-relief medicines (acetaminophen / paracetamol)
For fever and pain, doctors usually prefer paracetamol because it reduces temperature and discomfort without strongly affecting platelets or clotting. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen are typically avoided in hemorrhagic fevers because they can worsen bleeding. Acetaminophen dosing and liver safety are guided by standard FDA labeling and must be adjusted in critically ill patients. MD Searchlight+2CDC+2

Antiemetic medicines (for example, ondansetron)
Vomiting is common and can lead to dehydration and difficulty taking oral medicines or food. Intravenous antiemetics such as ondansetron help control nausea, allowing better fluid and nutrient intake. These medicines work by blocking serotonin receptors in the gut and brain that trigger vomiting. They are widely used in hospital care, though not specific to Chapare virus. MD Searchlight+1

Gastro-protective medicines (proton pump inhibitors)
Stress ulcers and stomach bleeding can occur during critical illness. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) reduce stomach acid production, lowering the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. In hemorrhagic fevers, where bleeding risk is already high, PPIs are commonly used as part of supportive care, guided by general ICU practice and drug labels. MD Searchlight+1

Broad-spectrum antibiotics for secondary bacterial infection
Chapare virus itself is not a bacterium, so antibiotics do not kill the virus. However, severely ill patients are at risk for secondary bacterial infections such as pneumonia or sepsis. In those cases, doctors may start broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics and then adjust after culture results. This approach is standard for viral hemorrhagic fevers and other critical infections. MD Searchlight+1

Anticonvulsants and sedative medicines
If the disease leads to seizures or severe agitation, ICU teams use anticonvulsants and sedatives to protect the brain and allow safe mechanical ventilation. These medicines stabilize abnormal electrical activity and reduce metabolic stress, though they must be used carefully because they can depress breathing and blood pressure. Seizure control is part of reported management in severe Chapare and other arenaviral infections. ScienceDirect+1

Ribavirin (experimental / off-label in arenavirus disease)
Ribavirin is a broad-spectrum antiviral approved by the FDA for chronic hepatitis C and inhaled use in some respiratory infections, and laboratory data show it can inhibit several RNA viruses. It has been used with mixed results in other arenaviral hemorrhagic fevers such as Lassa fever and Junín virus, especially when started early, but it is not approved and not proven for Chapare hemorrhagic fever. If considered, it would be within research protocols or emergency expert decisions because ribavirin can cause serious side effects like anemia. FDA Access Data+4PMC+4ScienceDirect+4

Favipiravir and other investigational antivirals
Favipiravir and other nucleoside analogues have shown laboratory activity against arenaviruses, but clinical evidence in Chapare hemorrhagic fever is lacking. Some FDA documents discuss favipiravir in the context of influenza and research on other viruses, but not for Chapare virus. Any use for Chapare would be highly experimental and done only in controlled studies, with careful monitoring for side effects such as liver and kidney problems. CEPI+3ScienceOpen+3FDA Access Data+3

Overall, all drug use in Chapare hemorrhagic fever today is supportive or experimental, not curative.

Dietary molecular supplements

No vitamin, herb, or supplement can cure Chapare hemorrhagic fever. However, proper nutrition and correction of deficiencies help the immune system work as well as possible during intensive care. Doctors and dietitians may use specific nutrients as part of medical nutrition therapy, especially if blood tests show low levels. PMC+2PubMed+2

Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant that supports white blood cell function, collagen production, and maintenance of blood vessels. Research shows that deficiency of vitamin C can impair immune responses and increase infection risk. In critical illness, doctors may give vitamin C as part of a controlled regimen, with the dose adjusted to kidney function. It is important to remember that vitamin C can support general immunity but has not been proven to cure any viral hemorrhagic fever. PMC+2ScienceDirect+2

Vitamin D
Vitamin D influences many immune processes, including how T cells and other immune cells respond to infection. Studies suggest low vitamin D levels may be linked to worse outcomes in some viral respiratory infections, and supplementation may reduce risk in people who are deficient. In intensive care, vitamin D dosing is individualized and must avoid toxic levels. For Chapare hemorrhagic fever, vitamin D is best seen as a supporting nutrient, not as a direct antiviral treatment. PMC+2ResearchGate+2

Zinc
Zinc is essential for many enzymes and for normal development of immune cells. Reviews show that marginal zinc deficiency can weaken innate and adaptive immunity and may increase susceptibility to infections. Correcting deficiency through diet or supplements (under medical supervision) can help restore immune function. However, excessive zinc can interfere with copper and other minerals, so doses must be carefully chosen in hospital settings. PMC+2Frontiers+2

Selenium
Selenium is a trace mineral with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory roles. Research in viral infections suggests that adequate selenium status helps limit oxidative damage and supports immune responses, while deficiency may worsen disease severity. In critically ill patients, selenium may be given as part of parenteral or enteral nutrition, but toxicity can occur at high doses, so it is always supervised by clinicians. MDPI+1

High-quality protein and amino acids (for example, glutamine)
Protein is vital for maintaining muscle, producing antibodies, and repairing tissues damaged by infection. In the ICU, dietitians calculate daily protein needs and may use specialized formulas or supplements. Some studies discuss glutamine and similar amino acids as potential immune-support nutrients, but results are mixed. The main goal is to meet overall protein and calorie needs without overfeeding. PubMed+2Springer Medizin+2

Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fats, found in fish oils and certain medical nutrition products, can modify inflammatory pathways. In some critical-illness studies, omega-3s may help balance inflammation, but they are not specific antivirals. In hemorrhagic conditions, doctors carefully weigh potential benefits against any risk of affecting platelet function, and they adjust dosing accordingly. PubMed+1

B-vitamin complex
B vitamins (like B1, B2, B6, B12, and folate) are needed for energy metabolism and for making red blood cells and nucleic acids. Illness and poor intake can cause deficiencies that worsen weakness and anemia. Hospital nutrition support often includes balanced B-vitamin supplementation to prevent or correct these deficits, although this is supportive rather than Chapare-specific treatment. PubMed+1

Probiotics (carefully selected in some settings)
In certain ICU protocols, probiotics are used to support gut barrier function and microbiome balance. The idea is that a healthier gut flora might reduce infection risk and inflammation. However, in profoundly immunocompromised patients or those with leaky gut, probiotics can rarely cause bloodstream infection, so their use in viral hemorrhagic fevers must be cautious and individualized. PubMed+1

(Other micronutrients like magnesium and iron are also adjusted, but always under specialist supervision to avoid harm.)

Immune-modulating and regenerative / stem-cell-related therapies

For Chapare hemorrhagic fever, immune-boosting or stem-cell drugs are not established treatments. Below are research directions mainly studied in other arenaviruses or sepsis; they are not standard care and are only used in clinical trials.

Convalescent plasma and antibody-based therapies
For another arenavirus disease, Argentine hemorrhagic fever, convalescent plasma (plasma from recovered patients that contains antibodies) dramatically reduced mortality when given early. This success has led researchers to explore whether similar antibody-based approaches, including monoclonal antibodies, could work for other arenaviruses. For Chapare virus, such therapies are still experimental and require high-level laboratory and clinical trial infrastructure. Springer Nature Link+3PMC+3PMC+3

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy in sepsis-like illness (research)
Mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow, fat, or umbilical cord have strong immunomodulatory properties. In animal models and early human studies of sepsis and acute lung injury, MSCs reduced inflammation, improved lung function, and lowered mortality. Researchers are interested in whether similar strategies could one day help in severe viral infections, but for Chapare hemorrhagic fever this remains purely experimental and is not routine therapy. Frontiers+3PMC+3Springer Nature Link+3

Monoclonal antibodies against arenaviruses (research)
Scientists have developed monoclonal antibodies that neutralize certain arenaviruses like Junín and Machupo in animal models, sometimes protecting almost all treated animals. These findings suggest that with more research, monoclonal antibodies might become targeted treatments or preventive tools against New-World arenaviruses. However, specific, proven monoclonal antibodies for Chapare virus are not yet available for clinical use. PLOS+3ScienceDirect+3PNAS+3

Advanced organ-support technologies
Techniques like extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for severe lung failure or continuous renal replacement therapies for kidney failure do not regenerate organs but can “buy time” while partial repair occurs. These methods are well established in critical care and may be used in selected viral hemorrhagic fever cases at highly specialized centers. They are resource-intensive and carry their own risks, so they are reserved for extreme situations. PMC+1

At present, all these regenerative or immune-modulating options should be viewed as research tools, not standard treatments for Chapare hemorrhagic fever.

Surgeries and invasive procedures

Routine “surgery” is not a primary treatment for Chapare hemorrhagic fever, but certain invasive procedures may be needed as part of intensive care if complications occur.

Central venous catheter insertion
To give strong medicines such as vasopressors and to monitor central venous pressure, doctors insert central lines into large veins in the neck or groin. This allows more precise fluid and drug management. In hemorrhagic fevers, central line insertion is done with extreme care to avoid bleeding and with full infection-control precautions. PMC+1

Endotracheal intubation and tracheostomy
If the patient cannot breathe adequately or needs long-term ventilation, doctors perform endotracheal intubation. In some prolonged cases, they may later do a tracheostomy (a surgical opening in the neck into the windpipe). These procedures help deliver oxygen safely but are high-risk for health-care workers because of exposure to airway secretions, so PPE and special protocols are essential. MD Searchlight+1

Dialysis catheter placement
When kidney failure requires dialysis, a special catheter is placed in a large vein to connect the patient to a dialysis machine. This minor surgical procedure enables life-saving renal replacement therapy but must be performed by experienced staff with careful bleeding control. PubMed+1

In rare cases, other surgeries might be required for complications unrelated directly to the virus (for example, emergency surgery for a perforated bowel), but such situations are exceptional and managed case by case.

Prevention of Chapare hemorrhagic fever

Prevention focuses on avoiding contact with rodent sources and infected body fluids, especially in areas of Bolivia where the virus has been detected.

1. Avoid rodent-infested areas and droppings – Keep homes clean, block holes where rodents can enter, and avoid sweeping or touching rodent droppings directly; instead, use wet cleaning methods and gloves. CDC+2Vax-Before-Travel+2

2. Store food in rodent-proof containers – Using sealed containers and keeping food off the floor helps stop contamination by rodent urine or feces. CDC+1

3. Use protective equipment when handling patients or samples – Health-care workers should follow standard precautions, including gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection, especially when dealing with blood or body fluids. World Health Organization+2CDC+2

4. Safe burial practices – Families and communities should avoid direct contact with the bodies of people who died from suspected Chapare hemorrhagic fever; trained teams should perform safe, respectful burials. World Health Organization+1

5. Sexual precautions with survivors – Because Chapare virus RNA has been detected in semen for months after infection, barrier protection (condoms) and medical follow-up are advised until doctors confirm it is safe. Wikipedia+1

6. Community education in affected regions – Teaching residents, farmers, and health workers how the virus is spread encourages early care seeking and safer behavior. World Health Organization+1

7. Rapid detection and reporting of cases – Health systems should quickly report suspected cases so that outbreak teams can investigate, trace contacts, and apply control measures. Vax-Before-Travel+2CDC Stacks+2

What to eat and what to avoid

Diet during Chapare hemorrhagic fever must be guided by doctors and dietitians, especially when the patient is in ICU. In general:

Helpful choices (as allowed by the medical team)

• Plenty of fluids (oral or via feeding tube) such as clean water, oral rehydration solutions, and clear broths to prevent dehydration, if the patient is allowed to drink. CDC+1

• Soft, easy-to-digest foods like porridge, rice, mashed potatoes, bananas, or yogurt when vomiting has settled, to provide energy without irritating the stomach. PubMed+1

• Adequate protein from sources such as eggs, dairy, or specially prepared protein formulas to support muscle and immune function (if kidneys can handle it). PubMed+1

• Micronutrient-rich foods (fruits and vegetables as tolerated) to supply vitamins and minerals important for immunity, including vitamin C, vitamin D (with safe sun exposure or supplements), and trace minerals like zinc and selenium. PMC+2PMC+2

Things usually avoided or used very cautiously

• Alcohol and tobacco, which can harm the liver, weaken immunity, and interfere with healing. PubMed+1

• Herbal or “immune booster” products without medical approval, because some can interact with medicines or stress the liver and kidneys already damaged by infection. PMC+1

• Very salty, oily, or heavily processed foods, which may worsen fluid retention or strain the heart and kidneys. PubMed+1

• NSAIDs taken on your own (like ibuprofen), because they can increase bleeding risk in hemorrhagic conditions; pain control should always be directed by doctors. MD Searchlight+1

When to see a doctor or seek emergency care

Because Chapare hemorrhagic fever is very rare and mainly occurs in specific parts of Bolivia, most people in other countries will never see it. Still, anyone who has traveled to or lives in an affected region should seek urgent medical attention if they:

• Develop sudden high fever, strong headache, muscle pain, and stomach upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), especially within a few weeks of possible rodent exposure or contact with a known case. PMC+2Wikipedia+2

• Notice bleeding from gums, nose, skin marks (bruises), or blood in vomit or stool. Wikipedia+1

• Feel very weak, dizzy, confused, or short of breath, which can be signs of shock or organ failure. MD Searchlight+1

Anyone with these symptoms after travel to Chapare-affected parts of Bolivia should go to a hospital immediately and tell the staff about their travel history and possible exposures so testing and isolation can begin quickly.

Because you are a teen, it is especially important not to try to handle serious symptoms alone. Always involve a parent or guardian and local health services if you or someone near you is severely unwell.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. Is Chapare hemorrhagic fever the same as Ebola?
No. Chapare hemorrhagic fever is caused by Chapare virus, an arenavirus, while Ebola is caused by filoviruses. Both can cause severe bleeding and organ failure, but they belong to different virus families, occur in different regions, and have different reservoirs and outbreak patterns. CDC+2Wikipedia+2

2. Where has Chapare hemorrhagic fever been reported?
Cases have been reported mainly in Bolivia, including Chapare Province and parts of La Paz Department, with occasional small outbreaks. Surveillance data show very small numbers of cases compared with other diseases, but the fatality rate in reported outbreaks has been high. PMC+2MalaCards+2

3. How dangerous is Chapare hemorrhagic fever?
Reported case-fatality rates have ranged from about 15–30% in some summaries and higher in certain small outbreaks. The true risk may depend on how quickly patients reach specialized care and how severe their illness is. Because case numbers are tiny, each new case is taken very seriously by public-health authorities. World Health Organization+2PMC+2

4. Is there a specific cure or antiviral medicine for Chapare virus?
At present there is no specific, proven antiviral cure for Chapare hemorrhagic fever. Supportive care—fluids, blood pressure support, management of bleeding and organ failure—is the main therapy. Some antivirals like ribavirin are being studied for arenaviruses in general, but they are not approved or confirmed for Chapare. Taylor & Francis Online+3CDC+3ScienceDirect+3

5. Is there a vaccine for Chapare hemorrhagic fever?
No licensed vaccine is currently available for Chapare virus. Research into arenavirus vaccines, including for related diseases like Argentine hemorrhagic fever, is ongoing, but nothing specific for Chapare is in routine use yet. PMC+2Infectious Diseases Journal+2

6. Can Chapare virus spread from person to person?
Yes. Investigations in Bolivia have documented human-to-human transmission, especially in health-care settings and within close contacts, likely through exposure to blood and other body fluids. However, the virus is not known to spread as easily as common respiratory viruses. New England Journal of Medicine+2Wikipedia+2

7. How long after exposure do symptoms appear?
A rapid review of Chapare virus epidemiology suggests an incubation period roughly between 9 and 19 days in reported cases. That means symptoms usually start 1–3 weeks after infection. GOV.UK+1

8. Can survivors have long-term problems?
Yes, some survivors of Chapare virus infection have shown prolonged neurological symptoms and persistent detection of viral RNA in certain body fluids, including semen, for months. This is why long-term medical follow-up and counseling about safe sex are advised. Wikipedia+1

9. Are children or teens at special risk?
Available case series are small, so it is hard to define age-specific risk. In general, severe viral hemorrhagic fevers can be particularly dangerous for very young children, pregnant women, and people with other health problems. Because you are a teen, any severe fever or bleeding symptoms after travel to risk areas should be treated as a medical emergency with adult help. CDC+1

10. Can normal travel to Bolivia cause Chapare hemorrhagic fever?
For typical tourists who avoid rodent-infested rural areas and follow health advice, the risk appears extremely low. Most reported cases have been in local residents or health-care workers. However, travelers should follow rodent-avoidance and infection-control advice in Chapare-affected regions. Vax-Before-Travel+2MalaCards+2

11. Can I protect myself by taking vitamins or herbal “immune boosters”?
Normal, balanced nutrition and correction of real deficiencies in vitamin C, D, zinc, and selenium can support general immunity, but no supplement can guarantee protection from Chapare virus. High-dose or unregulated herbal products can cause side effects or interact with medicines, so they should only be used on a doctor’s advice. Binasss+3PMC+3MDPI+3

12. How do doctors confirm Chapare hemorrhagic fever?
Diagnosis requires specialized tests such as PCR to detect viral RNA, often done in high-containment reference laboratories. Because symptoms resemble other diseases (like dengue, malaria, Lassa fever, and even COVID-19), doctors must first rule out more common infections. New England Journal of Medicine+2ScienceDirect+2

13. Is Chapare virus now a global threat?
Current evidence suggests Chapare virus is a localized threat in parts of Bolivia, with sporadic cases and small clusters. WHO and national health agencies monitor cases and state that, as of recent updates, there is no significant risk of international spread, though vigilance is needed. World Health Organization+2Vax-Before-Travel+2

14. What is the best “treatment” strategy overall?
The best strategy is early recognition, rapid transfer to a hospital with intensive care, strict infection control, and careful supportive treatment of each complication. This approach has improved survival in other viral hemorrhagic fevers and is considered the mainstay for Chapare until better antivirals or vaccines are developed. Springer Nature Link+3CDC+3MD Searchlight+3

15. What should I personally do if I am worried about this disease?
If you do not live in or travel to affected parts of Bolivia, your personal risk is extremely low. The most useful actions are to follow general infection-prevention habits, stay informed using trusted sources like WHO or CDC, and, if you ever travel to risk areas, follow local public-health advice. If you have any health concerns, discuss them with a qualified doctor rather than trying to diagnose or treat yourself. CDC+2CDC+2

Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical  history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.

The article is written by Team RxHarun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members

Last Updated: December 21, 2025.

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