Which symptom is indicative of hemorrhagic illnesses like Ebola?

Petechiae and ecchymoses are small, pinpoint-sized red or purple spots and larger bruises respectively, which occur due to bleeding under the skin. These symptoms are particularly indicative of hemorrhagic illnesses, such as Ebola, because they result from the virus affecting the vascular system and increasing the permeability of blood vessels. The presence of petechiae and ecchymoses suggests a coagulopathy, which is a disorder of blood clotting, commonly observed in patients suffering from such viral infections. This can lead to systemic bleeding issues, which are characteristic of more severe hemorrhagic conditions, further linking these symptoms to diseases like Ebola.

In contrast, while a rash, fever, cough, or muscle cramps may be associated with a variety of illnesses, they are not specifically indicative of hemorrhagic syndromes and lack the direct connection to the bleeding manifestations that petechiae and ecchymoses provide in this context.