Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a severe, often fatal and highly contagious illness that is caused by the Ebola virus. The disease was first discovered in 1976 in what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and has since spread to several other countries in Africa, Europe and the United States. It is one of the deadliest viral diseases known to humans, with mortality rates ranging from 25 to 90%.
What is the Ebola Virus?
The Ebola virus is a member of the Filoviridae family and is one of the most virulent pathogens known to mankind. It is an enveloped, single-stranded, negative-sense RNA virus that causes hemorrhagic fever in humans and other primates. The virus is transmitted from one person to another through contact with bodily fluids or contaminated objects, such as needles or syringes.
How is Ebola Transmitted?
The virus is spread through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person, such as blood, vomit, feces, sweat, saliva, semen, and breast milk. It can also be spread through contact with objects that have been contaminated with the virus, such as needles and syringes.
What are the Symptoms of Ebola?
Early symptoms of Ebola virus disease include fever, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, and weakness. As the disease progresses, symptoms can become more severe, including vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and bleeding. Severe cases can lead to shock, organ failure, and death.
How is Ebola Treated?
There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for Ebola virus disease. Treatment focuses on supportive care, such as providing fluids and electrolytes, maintaining oxygen levels and blood pressure, and treating any complications. Experimental treatments are being developed, but none are currently available.