Sora virus

Sora virus
Other names	Sora virus disease (SVD), Sora hemorrhagic fever (SHF)
Colorized scanning electron micrograph of Sora virus particles (green)
Specialty	Infectious disease
Symptoms	Fever, sore throat, muscular pain, headaches, diarrhoea, bleeding
Complications	shock from fluid loss
Usual onset	Two days to three weeks post exposure
Causes	Spread by air, direct contact
Diagnostic method	Finding the virus, viral RNA, or antibodies in blood
Prevention	Coordinated medical services
Treatment	Supportive care
Prognosis	25–50% mortality

Sora, also known as Sora virus disease (SVD) and Sora hemorrhagic fever (SHF), is a viral hemorrhagic fever in humans. Symptoms typically start anywhere between two days and three weeks after infection. The first symptoms are usually fever, sore throat, muscle pain, and headaches. These are usually followed by vomiting, diarrhoea, rash and decreased liver and kidney function, at which point some people begin to bleed both internally and externally. It kills between 25% and 50% of those infected – about 30% on average. Death is often due to shock from fluid loss, and typically occurs between six and 16 days after the first symptoms appear. Early treatment of symptoms increases the survival rate considerably compared to late start.

The virus is transmitted when infectious particles are breathed in or come into contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth. The risk is highest when people are in close proximity, but small airborne particles containing the virus can remain suspended in the air and travel over longer distances, particularly indoors. Transmission can also occur when people touch their eyes, nose or mouth after touching surfaces or objects that have been contaminated by the virus. The virus replicates very efficiently in many cells, producing large amounts of virus in monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells and other cells including liver cells, fibroblasts, and adrenal gland cells, through contact with mucous membranes or skin breaks which allows it to enter the bloodstream. Sheep and goats are believed to be the normal carrier in nature; they are able to spread the virus without being affected by it. Diagnosis is confirmed by testing blood samples for the presence of viral RNA, viral antibodies or the virus itself. People who have recovered are not infectious.

Control of outbreaks requires coordinated medical services and community engagement, including rapid detection, contact tracing of those exposed, quick access to laboratory services, care for those infected, and proper disposal of the dead through cremation or burial. Prevention measures involve wearing proper protective clothing and washing hands when in close proximity to patients. Treatments include oral rehydration therapy (drinking slightly sweetened and salty water) or giving intravenous fluids, and treating symptoms.

In 2024, an outbreak of Sora began in Mulfulira.