Ebola Virus: A Deadly Disease You Must Know About

The Ebola virus is a rare but dangerous disease that affects both humans and animals. It was first discovered in 1976 near the Ebola River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since then, several outbreaks have occurred, mainly in Africa.

Why is Ebola Deadly?

Ebola is highly contagious and spreads quickly through contact with body fluids like blood, saliva, and sweat. Once infected, a person experiences severe symptoms, including fever, vomiting, and even internal bleeding. Without treatment, the disease can lead to organ failure and death. The fatality ratecan be as high as 90% in some outbreaks.

Why is Understanding Ebola Important?

To reduce the spread of Ebola, it is crucial to know its causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention:

• Causes: Spread through infected animals and human-to-human contact.
• Symptoms: Fever, weakness, diarrhea, and severe bleeding.
• Treatment: Supportive care, hydration, and experimental antiviral drugs.
• Prevention: Avoid contact with infected individuals, proper hygiene, and vaccination.

What is Ebola Virus? A Simple and Detailed Guide

The Ebola virus is a rare but deadly disease that affects both humans and animals. It is caused by a group of viruses belonging to the Filoviridae family. This virus leads to Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), a severe illness that can quickly spread and cause organ failure, internal bleeding, and even death. Since it is highly contagious, early detection and prevention are crucial.

Definition of the Ebola Virus

In simple terms, the Ebola virus is a type of virus that causes a severe and often fatal disease in humans and animals. It mainly spreads through direct contact with infected body fluids and quickly damages multiple organs in the body.

Discovery of the Ebola Virus

• The virus was first identified in 1976.
• It was discovered near the Ebola River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
• Since then, several outbreaks have occurred, mostly in African countries.
• The largest outbreak happened between 2014 and 2016, affecting thousands of people.

Why is Ebola a Serious Disease?

Ebola is not like the common flu or cold. It spreads fast, has a high fatality rate, and can overwhelm health systems. The mortality rate can range from 25% to 90%, depending on the outbreak and available medical care.

How Does Ebola Virus Spread?

Ebola spreads through direct contact with body fluids of an infected person or animal. The virus can enter the body through:

• Open wounds or cuts on the skin.
• Mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth).
• Needle injuries in healthcare settings.
• Contaminated surfaces or objects (like clothing or bedding).

Who is at Risk of Getting Ebola?

Certain people are more vulnerable to Ebola infection, including:

• Healthcare workers treating infected patients.
• Family members caring for sick relatives.
• People handling infected animals (hunters or butchers).
• Travelers visiting outbreak areas.

How Does Ebola Affect the Body?

Once inside the body, the virus targets the immune system and spreads rapidly. It:

• Destroys white blood cells, weakening the body's defenses.
• Damages blood vessels, leading to internal and external bleeding.
• Affects multiple organs, including the liver, kidneys, and heart.
• Causes severe inflammation, leading to shock and death in severe cases.

Causes of Ebola Virus: How It Spreads to Humans

The Ebola virus is a deadly disease that primarily affects humans and animals. It is caused by the Ebolavirus, which belongs to the Filoviridae family. Since it spreads quickly and has a high fatality rate, understanding its causes is essential for prevention. The virus originates from wild animals and can be transmitted to humans through various means.

Where Does the Ebola Virus Come From?

Ebola is classified as a zoonotic virus, meaning it originates in animals and spreads to humans. Research suggests that the virus mainly comes from:

• Fruit bats (believed to be the natural hosts).
• Monkeys, chimpanzees, and gorillas (often get infected and pass it to humans).
• Porcupines and other wild animals (can carry the virus).

How Do Humans Get Infected with the Ebola Virus?

Ebola spreads through direct contact with infected body fluids, tissues, or contaminated objects. Below are the main ways humans contract the virus:

1. Contact with Body Fluids of Infected Animals or People

• The virus is present in blood, saliva, sweat, urine, vomit, feces, and breast milk.
• If a person touches these fluids and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth, they can become infected.
• Family members and caregivers of infected patients are at high risk.

2. Handling Infected Meat (Bushmeat Consumption)

• Some communities in Africa consume bushmeat (wild animal meat).
• Handling, cooking, or eating infected meat from bats, monkeys, or other wild animals can spread the virus.
• Hunters, butchers, and meat vendors are more exposed to the risk.

3. Touching Contaminated Objects and Surfaces

• The virus can survive on surfaces like bedding, clothing, and medical equipment for hours or even days.
• If a person touches a contaminated object and then touches their face or an open wound, they can get infected.
• Proper disinfection is crucial to stopping the spread.

4. Exposure in Healthcare Settings Without Proper Protection

• Healthcare workers treating Ebola patients are at high risk if they do not wear personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Needle injuries, improper disposal of medical waste, or lack of infection control measures can spread the virus.
• Hospitals with poor hygiene practices may contribute to outbreaks.

Can Ebola Spread Through Air, Water, or Food?

• No, the Ebola virus does not spread through the air like the flu or COVID-19.
• No, it does not spread through water or properly cooked food.
• Yes, raw or undercooked meat from infected animals can transmit the virus.

Symptoms of Ebola Virus: Early and Advanced Signs

The Ebola virus is a deadly disease that progresses rapidly. It affects the body in stages, starting with mild symptoms and worsening over time. Recognizing the early symptoms can help in seeking medical attention before the condition becomes severe. Since Ebola has a high fatality rate, understanding its symptoms is crucial for survival.

Incubation Period: How Long Before Symptoms Appear?

• The incubation period of Ebola ranges from 2 to 21 days.
• This means an infected person may not show symptoms immediately.
• However, once symptoms begin, they worsen quickly.
• The virus is not contagious until symptoms appear.

Early Symptoms of Ebola Virus

The first signs of Ebola resemble those of common viral infections like flu or malaria. These symptoms include:

• Fever (one of the earliest and most common signs).
• Severe headache (persistent and throbbing pain).
• Muscle pain (especially in the joints and lower back).
• Fatigue (extreme tiredness and weakness).
• Sore throat (pain and difficulty swallowing).

These early symptoms make Ebola difficult to diagnose since they are similar to other illnesses. However, as the disease progresses, more severe symptoms appear.

Advanced Symptoms of Ebola Virus

If the infection is not treated early, the virus spreads throughout the body, leading to life-threatening complications. The advanced symptoms include:

• Vomiting and diarrhea (can lead to severe dehydration).
• Stomach pain (caused by internal bleeding and inflammation).
• Skin rashes (red spots or blisters on the body).
• Bleeding from the nose, gums, and eyes (one of the most dangerous symptoms).
• Organ failure in severe cases (Ebola can damage the liver, kidneys, and other organs).

Why Do These Symptoms Occur?

Ebola attacks the immune system and damages blood vessels, making it difficult for the body to fight the virus. As the infection spreads, the body loses its ability to clot blood, leading to uncontrollable bleeding. This is why Ebola is also known as a hemorrhagic fever.

When to Seek Medical Help?

Anyone who experiences early Ebola symptoms, especially after traveling to an affected area, should seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis can increase the chances of survival.

How is Ebola Diagnosed? A Complete Guide

Diagnosing the Ebola virus can be challenging, especially in the early stages. This is because its initial symptoms, such as fever, headache, and muscle pain, resemble those of common illnesses like flu or malaria. However, early detection is crucial, as it helps prevent severe complications and controls the spread of the virus. Doctors use advanced laboratory teststo confirm Ebola infection.

Why is Early Diagnosis Difficult?

In the first few days, Ebola symptoms are similar to other infections, including:

• Flu (fever, sore throat, and fatigue).
• Malaria (high fever, chills, and body aches).
• Typhoid fever (abdominal pain, weakness, and diarrhea).
• Dengue fever (skin rash, joint pain, and nausea).

Since these diseases have overlapping symptoms, laboratory tests are essential to confirm an Ebola diagnosis.

Common Diagnostic Tests for Ebola

To detect the Ebola virus, doctors perform blood tests and molecular tests. These tests help identify the virus in the early and later stages of infection.

1. Blood Tests to Detect the Virus

• Blood samples are taken from a suspected patient.
• The test detects the presence of the Ebola virus RNA (genetic material).
• Blood tests also help rule out other infections.

2. PCR Test (Polymerase Chain Reaction Test)

• The PCR test is one of the most reliable methods for detecting Ebola.
• It identifies small amounts of the virus by amplifying its genetic material.
• This test gives results within a few hours, making early diagnosis possible.
• A positive PCR test confirms an active Ebola infection.

3. Antibody Tests (ELISA and IgM/IgG Tests)

• These tests detect antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the virus.
• IgM antibodies appear early in the infection.
• IgG antibodies remain in the blood for months or years, indicating a past infection.
• Antibody tests help researchers track the spread of Ebola in affected regions.

Additional Tests to Monitor Ebola Patients

Apart from detecting the virus, doctors conduct other tests to check how Ebola is affecting the body. These include:

• Liver function tests to see if the virus is damaging the liver.
• Kidney function tests to monitor possible kidney failure.
• Complete blood count (CBC) to check for abnormal bleeding or infection.

How Long Does It Take to Diagnose Ebola?

• The PCR test can provide results in a few hours.
• Other blood tests may take 24 to 48 hours to confirm the diagnosis.
• In remote areas, delays in testing can make diagnosis and treatment challenging.

Treatment of Ebola Virus: How is Ebola Managed?

The Ebola virus is a serious disease that spreads quickly and has a high fatality rate. Unfortunately, there is no specific cure for Ebola. However, supportive medical care can improve survival chances by helping the body fight the infection. Early medical attention is critical, as it reduces the risk of complications and death.

Why is There No Specific Cure for Ebola?

Ebola is caused by a virus, and unlike bacterial infections, antibiotics do not work against viruses. Scientists have developed experimental treatments, but they are not widely available. Instead, doctors focus on supportive care, which helps the body recover by treating symptoms and preventing severe complications.

Supportive Treatments for Ebola Virus

Since Ebola weakens the body, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and keeping patients stable. The following medical interventions are used to support recovery:

1. Giving Fluids to Prevent Dehydration

• Ebola causes severe diarrhea and vomiting, leading to dehydration.
• Patients are given fluids through oral rehydration solutions or intravenous (IV) fluids.
• Proper hydration helps maintain blood pressure and organ function.

2. Providing Oxygen and Blood Pressure Support

• Some Ebola patients develop breathing problems.
• Oxygen therapy is given to help them breathe properly.
• Blood pressure medications are used if the patient's pressure drops too low.

3. Treating Other Infections If They Occur

• The weakened immune system makes Ebola patients more vulnerable to bacterial infections.
• Antibiotics and antifungal drugs may be given to fight secondary infections.
• This reduces the risk of complications like pneumonia and sepsis.

4. Using Experimental Antiviral Drugs and Antibodies

• Some antiviral drugs have been tested for treating Ebola, such as Remdesivir.
• Monoclonal antibodies like Inmazeb and Ebanga help the immune system fight the virus.
• These treatments have shown promising results, but they are not available in all regions.

Why is Early Medical Care Important?

Seeking treatment as soon as symptoms appear can increase survival chances. Early care helps:

• Control severe symptoms before they become life-threatening.
• Prevent serious complications like organ failure and internal bleeding.
• Reduce the spread of the virus to others through proper medical isolation.

Current Research on Ebola Treatment

• Scientists are working on more effective antiviral drugs.
• Ebola vaccines like rVSV-ZEBOV help prevent infection, but they do not cure the disease.
• Research continues to find better ways to manage and treat Ebola patients.

Vaccines for Ebola Virus

In recent years, scientists have developed vaccines to protect against Ebola. These vaccines are primarily used in outbreak zones and for healthcare workers at high risk. The most effective vaccine is:

• rVSV-ZEBOV – A single-dose vaccine that provides strong protection against the Zaire Ebola virus strain.

While these vaccines help control outbreaks, they are not a guaranteed solution. Prevention measures are still necessary to stop the spread of the virus.

Essential Ebola Prevention Measures

Since Ebola spreads through direct contact with infected body fluids, taking proper precautions can reduce the risk of infection. Below are the most effective Ebola prevention strategies:

1. Avoid Contact with Wild Animals

• Bats, monkeys, and apes are known carriers of the Ebola virus.
• Avoid hunting, handling, or eating wild animals (bushmeat).
• Stay away from caves and forests where bats are common.

2. Cook Meat Thoroughly Before Eating

• If consuming animal products, ensure meat is properly cooked to kill harmful viruses.
• Avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat, especially in regions with Ebola outbreaks.
• Use separate cutting boards and wash hands after handling raw meat.

3. Maintain Proper Hygiene

• Wash hands frequently with soap and clean water.
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap is unavailable.
• Avoid touching your face, eyes, and mouth with unclean hands.

4. Wear Protective Gear When Caring for an Ebola Patient

• Healthcare workers and caregivers must wear gloves, masks, gowns, and goggles.
• Avoid direct skin contact with infected individuals.
• Dispose of contaminated materials and medical waste properly.

5. Follow Safety Guidelines in Hospitals and Laboratories

• Hospitals must isolate Ebola patients to prevent transmission.
• Medical staff should follow strict infection control protocols.
• Laboratory workers handling Ebola samples must use biosafety equipment to avoid exposure.

How Can Communities Prevent Ebola Outbreaks?

Communities play a key role in stopping the spread of Ebola. The following measures can help prevent outbreaks:

• Public Awareness Campaigns – Educate people about how Ebola spreads and the importance of hygiene.
• Early Detection and Reporting – Report suspicious cases to health authorities for early intervention.
• Safe Burial Practices – Avoid direct contact with dead bodies of Ebola victims, as the virus remains active in bodily fluids.

How Does Ebola Spread?

The Ebola virus is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids from an infected person. Unlike common viruses like the flu or cold, Ebola does not spread through air, water, or casual contact. Understanding how Ebola is transmitted is crucial in preventing outbreaks and protecting yourself from infection.

Human-to-Human Transmission of Ebola

Ebola spreads when body fluids of an infected person come into contact with another person’s body, especially through open cuts, mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth), or broken skin. Below are the main ways Ebola spreads among humans:

1. Direct Contact with Body Fluids

The Ebola virus is present in an infected person’s bodily fluids, including:

• Blood – The most infectious fluid, carrying a high viral load.
• Saliva and Sweat – Contact with infected saliva through kissing or sharing utensils can spread the virus.
• Urine and Feces – Handling an infected person’s waste without protection increases risk.
• Vomit – The virus is present in vomit, especially in the later stages of illness.
• Breast Milk – Mothers with Ebola can pass the virus to their babies through breastfeeding.
• Semen and Vaginal Fluids – The virus remains in semen for months after recovery, making unprotected sex a risk.

2. Contact with Contaminated Surfaces or Objects

• Ebola can survive on surfaces like bed linens, clothing, needles, and medical equipment for several hours.
• Touching contaminated objects and then touching your face, mouth, or eyes can lead to infection.
• Healthcare workers and caregivers are at higher risk if they do not use protective equipment like gloves and masks.

3. Transmission During Funeral Practices

• The bodies of Ebola victims remain highly infectious after death.
• Traditional burial rituals, which involve washing or touching the body, increase the risk of spreading Ebola.
• Safe burial practices, such as using protective gear and avoiding direct contact, are essential in stopping transmission.

Does Ebola Spread Through Air, Water, or Food?

Unlike airborne viruses like COVID-19 or the flu, Ebola does NOT spread through the air. You cannot get Ebola by breathing the same air as an infected person.

Similarly, Ebola does not spread through water or properly cooked food. However, consuming raw or undercooked meat from infected animals (bushmeat) can cause an outbreak.

How Can You Prevent Ebola Transmission?

Since Ebola is spread through direct contact, following these preventive measurescan help reduce the risk:

• Avoid touching infected individuals or their body fluids.
• Wear protective gear if caring for an Ebola patient.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
• Disinfect surfaces and objects that may have been contaminated.
• Practice safe burial methods to prevent infection from dead bodies.

Risk Factors for Ebola Infection

Ebola is a highly contagious and deadly disease caused by the Ebola virus. While anyone can get infected, certain groups of people are at higher risk due to their exposure to the virus. Understanding these risk factors can help prevent the spread of Ebola and protect vulnerable individuals.

Who is at Higher Risk of Ebola Infection?

The risk of getting Ebola increases when people come into direct contact with the virus. Below are the main risk groups:

1. Healthcare Workers Treating Ebola Patients

• Doctors, nurses, and hospital staff who treat Ebola patients face a high risk of exposure.
• Ebola spreads through bodily fluids like blood, saliva, and vomit, making direct contact a serious risk.
• Lack of proper protective gear (PPE) increases the chances of infection.
• Medical workers who do not follow strict infection control measures are more likely to contract the virus.

2. Family Members and Caregivers of Infected Individuals

• Relatives or close contacts of Ebola patients face a higher risk of infection.
• Taking care of sick individuals often involves touching contaminated surfaces, sharing food, or cleaning up bodily fluids.
• Many family members contract Ebola because they do not use protective gloves and masks while caregiving.

3. People Handling Wild Animals (Bushmeat Hunters and Animal Handlers)

• Ebola is a zoonotic disease, meaning it spreads from animals to humans.
• The virus is commonly found in fruit bats, monkeys, gorillas, and chimpanzees.
• Hunters, butchers, and traders who handle infected animals are at a high risk of exposure.
• Eating undercooked or raw meat (bushmeat) from infected animals can also lead to Ebola outbreaks.

4. People Living in or Traveling to Ebola-Affected Regions

• Ebola outbreaks mostly occur in Central and West African countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea, and Liberia.
• People living in rural areas with poor healthcare systems are at higher risk due to limited medical facilities.
• Travelers visiting these regions for work, tourism, or humanitarian aid may be exposed to the virus.
• If safety guidelines, such as avoiding contact with sick individuals, are not followed, the chances of infection increase.

Other Risk Factors

Apart from the high-risk groups mentioned above, other factors can increase Ebola infection risk:

• Funeral Practices – Handling the body of an Ebola victim during traditional burial rituals can spread the virus.
• Poor Hygiene and Sanitation – People in areas with limited access to clean water and soap face higher exposure risks.
• Weak Immune System – Individuals with pre-existing health conditions may have a harder time fighting the virus.

How to Reduce the Risk of Ebola Infection?

To prevent Ebola, people in high-risk areas should take protective measures, such as:

• Wearing protective gloves, masks, and gowns when caring for Ebola patients.
• Avoiding direct contact with sick individuals or their bodily fluids.
• Not handling or consuming bushmeat, especially from infected animals.
• Practicing good hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water.
• Following travel advisories when visiting Ebola-affected regions.

Ebola Virus Outbreaks in History

Ebola virus disease (EVD) is one of the deadliest viral infections known to humans. Since its discovery in 1976, the virus has caused multiple outbreaks, mainly in Central and West Africa. These outbreaks have resulted in thousands of deaths, leading to major health crises. Understanding past outbreaks helps in better preparedness and response to future cases.

Major Ebola Outbreaks in Africa

Ebola outbreaks have occurred in several African countries, with some being more severe than others. Below are the most significant outbreaks:

1. The First Ebola Outbreaks (1976)

• The Ebola virus was first identified in 1976 in two simultaneous outbreaks:
  • Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire outbreak) – 318 cases, 280 deaths (88% fatality rate).
  • Sudan outbreak – 284 cases, 151 deaths (53% fatality rate).
• These outbreaks were linked to infected needles and direct contact with patients.

2. Uganda Outbreak (2000-2001)

• Uganda experienced a major outbreak in Gulu, Masindi, and Mbarara districts.
• The outbreak led to 425 cases and 224 deaths.
• Improved infection control measures helped contain the spread.

3. Democratic Republic of Congo Outbreak (2018-2020)

• One of the largest outbreaks in DRC history, lasting from 2018 to 2020.
• 3,470 cases and over 2,280 deaths were reported.
• The introduction of the Ebola vaccine (rVSV-ZEBOV) helped control the outbreak.

2014-2016 West Africa Ebola Outbreak

The largest and deadliest Ebola outbreak occurred between 2014 and 2016 in West Africa, affecting Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.

Key Facts:

• Over 28,000 cases and more than 11,300 deaths were recorded.
• The outbreak spread to Nigeria, Mali, Senegal, the U.S., and Europe due to international travel.
• Weak healthcare systems and lack of proper containment measures led to rapid transmission.

How Was It Controlled?

• Strict isolation protocols were implemented.
• The WHO, CDC, and global health organizations provided emergency support.
• Experimental treatments and vaccines were tested for the first time.
• Public awareness campaigns were launched to educate people about Ebola prevention.

Lessons Learned and Improvements in Handling Ebola Outbreaks

The 2014-2016 outbreak highlighted several weaknesses in the global response to Ebola. However, it also led to important improvements:

• Faster Outbreak Response – Health organizations now act immediately to prevent the spread of Ebola.
• Development of Vaccines – The rVSV-ZEBOV vaccine was introduced and has been used successfully in recent outbreaks.
• Better Surveillance Systems – Countries have improved disease tracking and reporting to detect cases early.
• Stronger Healthcare Systems – Nations have invested in health infrastructure to handle future outbreaks more effectively.
• Improved Public Awareness – People are now better informed about Ebola symptoms, prevention, and treatment.

Future of Ebola Treatment & Research

Ebola virus disease (EVD) remains a serious global health threat, but advances in medical research, vaccines, and treatment are making it more manageable. Scientists, governments, and health organizations are working tirelessly to develop effective therapies to prevent and treat Ebola. The future looks promising as new vaccines, antiviral drugs, and public health measures continue to evolve.

Ongoing Research on Ebola Vaccines and Antiviral Drugs

Over the years, researchers have made significant progress in developing treatments for Ebola. Several vaccines and experimental drugs are currently under study, with some already showing positive results.

1. Vaccines for Ebola Prevention

Vaccination is the best defense against Ebola outbreaks. Some key vaccines include:

• rVSV-ZEBOV (Ervebo) – The first approved Ebola vaccine, widely used in Africa. It provides strong immunity against the virus.
• Ad26.ZEBOV/MVA-BN-Filo – A new vaccine under study that provides longer protection and is being tested in high-risk areas.
• Next-generation vaccines – Researchers are working on improved vaccines that can protect against multiple Ebola strains.

2. Antiviral Drugs for Ebola Treatment

While there is still no definitive cure for Ebola, new antiviral drugs are offering hope:

• Inmazeb (REGN-EB3) – A monoclonal antibody therapy that neutralizes the virus.
• mAb114 – Developed from Ebola survivors' antibodies, this drug is showing promising results.
• Remdesivir – Originally tested for Ebola, this antiviral drug is being further studied.
• Experimental therapies – Scientists are exploring gene-editing technologies to block virus replication.

Global Efforts by WHO and CDC to Control Ebola

International health organizations are playing a crucial role in Ebola prevention and control. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have developed strong response strategies to manage outbreaks effectively.

Key Initiatives by WHO & CDC:

• Rapid Response Teams – Experts are deployed immediately to outbreak regions.
• Surveillance Systems – Advanced tracking tools help detect cases early.
• Vaccine Distribution – WHO ensures high-risk communities receive vaccinations.
• Training Healthcare Workers – Medical staff receive special training to handle Ebola patients.
• International Funding & Research Grants – Millions of dollars are invested in Ebola research and healthcare infrastructure.

The Role of Public Health Awareness in Preventing Future Outbreaks

Public health awareness is essential in stopping the spread of Ebola. Educating communities about prevention, symptoms, and early treatment helps reduce infections and fatalities.

Effective Public Health Strategies:

• Educational Campaigns – Governments and NGOs spread awareness through radio, television, and social media.
• Safe Burial Practices – Funeral traditions are modified to prevent virus transmission.
• Hygiene Promotion – Encouraging handwashing and sanitation reduces the risk of infection.
• Travel Restrictions – Monitoring travelers from affected regions helps control outbreaks.
• Community Engagement – Local leaders work with health officials to build trust and cooperation.

Conclusion

The future of Ebola treatment and research is bright, thanks to global efforts in vaccine development, antiviral drugs, and public health awareness. While challenges remain, scientific advancements and international cooperation are making Ebola outbreaks less deadly and more manageable. With continuous research and strong preventive measures, the world is moving closer to a future where Ebola is no longer a major threat.

Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a severe and often fatal illness caused by the Ebola virus. It spreads through direct contact with infected body fluids, contaminated surfaces, or animals like bats, monkeys, and apes. The incubation period ranges from 2 to 21 days, and early symptoms include fever, muscle pain, and sore throat. As the infection worsens, vomiting, diarrhea, internal bleeding, and organ failure can occur.

Importance of Early Detection and Prevention

• Early detection improves survival rates, as timely medical care helps manage symptoms.
• There is no specific cure, but supportive treatments like fluids, oxygen, and antiviral drugs can help.
• Vaccines are available and are used in high-risk areas.
• Preventive measures include:
  • Avoiding contact with infected people and animals
  • Washing hands frequently
  • Wearing protective gear in healthcare settings