Viral haemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) are a group of diseases that are caused by several distinct families of viruses. The incubation period for VHF is between two days and three weeks, it vary by disease. General symptoms common to all five families include fever, malaise, myalgia, headache, and skin rash. Fatality rates can range from 0.6% to 90% depending on the type of illness. On 17 November 2021 the Kunene regional surveillance officer was informed of a suspected VHF case from Outjo district by the district surveillance officer. This prompted an urgent investigation to find out more cases and identify contacts to control further spread of the disease.

