A life-threatening childhood illness, also known as Brazilian purpuric fever, caused by germs called bacteria.

Purpuric fever is caused by Haemophilus influenzae biogroup aegyptius bacteria. Outbreaks happened in Brazil in the 1980s. In the years after, there were few reports of the illness worldwide. Purpuric fever affects children between 3 months and 10 years old. It seems to be more common in small rural towns than in big cities.

Purpuric fever starts with eye symptoms that may include swelling, itching and redness. Days or weeks later, symptoms can include a high fever, stomach pain, vomiting and a spotted skin rash. The infection also can lead to a life-threatening condition called sepsis that affects the organs.

Purpuric fever treatment involves taking medicines called antibiotics as soon as possible. These medicines help get rid of the germs that cause the illness.