What is Lujo?

Lujo (LHF) is a hemorraghic fever caused by an arenavirus. LHF is contracted by humans through contact with virus-contaminated rodent excreta, via inhalation of dust or aerosolized materials or vomitus soiled with rodent feces and urine, or nosocomially via direct contact with infected blood, urine or pharyngeal secretions from an infected person or via ingestion of contaminated food.

To date only five cases of LHF have been recognized and laboratory confirmed following a nosocomial outbreak in South Africa in 2008. The index case sought medical care in South Africa following onset of illness in Zambia and subsequently infected four health care workers.

LHF is notifiable because it is transmissible from person to person and has outbreak potential. After notification of a case, public health officials will request all contacts of the case to monitor themselves for fever and compatible symptoms for a 21-day period following exposure.