Rift Valley fever

Patients who are discharged after being diagnosed with RVF should be aware of symptoms of ocular or neurological manifestations which may start several weeks after appearance of first symptoms.[1]National Institute for Communicable Diseases. Healthcare workers guidelines on Rift Valley fever (RVF). Jan 2021 [internet publication]. https://www.nicd.ac.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Rift-Valley-Fever-2021-Guidelines-for-Health-Care-Workers_110321.pdf [2]Jankovic J, Mazziotta J, Pomeroy S, et al. Bradley and Daroff's neurology in clinical practice, 2-volume set. 8th ed. Elsevier. 2021.[12]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Rift Valley fever. Jun 2023 [internet publication]. https://www.cdc.gov/vhf/rvf The patient should be instructed to contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible if these symptoms develop.

Advice about preventing infection should be given to all patients. Mosquito bites should be avoided, especially in areas and times of high Rift Valley fever virus activity. Avoidance includes staying indoors from dusk to dawn, discarding stagnant water that may breed mosquitoes, and avoiding areas of heavy vegetation that may harbour mosquitoes. Insect repellent should be used and insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets where available. Clothes that cover the whole body should be worn when outdoors.

Education:

• A fact sheet is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): CDC: Rift Valley fever (RVF) fact sheet Opens in new window

• A fact sheet is available from the World Health Organization (WHO): WHO: Rift Valley fever fact sheet Opens in new window

Travel:

• The CDC provides guidance for travellers: CDC: travelers' health - Rift Valley fever Opens in new window