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Warning-sign checks

Bunyavirus infection: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek urgent or emergency care rather than waiting for a routine visit if breathing becomes difficult, confusion develops, a seizure occurs, bleeding is substantial, urine output drops sharply, or symptoms worsen quickly.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has a fever with a stiff neck, a rash that does not fade under pressure, or severe headache
    • has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up may involve checking whether fever, fatigue, breathing, kidney function, vision, or neurologic symptoms are improving.

    People who were hospitalized may need repeat blood tests, lung assessment, kidney monitoring, or rehabilitation.

    Keep follow-up appointments if symptoms continue even after the fever has resolved.

    Report ongoing shortness of breath, reduced urination, swelling, unusual bruising, severe fatigue, headaches, memory problems, weakness, or vision changes.

    Eye symptoms may require an ophthalmologist, a doctor who specializes in eye care.

    Public health staff may contact some patients to clarify exposures, arrange testing, or identify people who need monitoring.

    Follow any instructions about avoiding blood donation, limiting close contact, or using precautions at home.

    These instructions vary because only certain bunyaviruses can spread between people.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Bunyavirus infection. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.