Ebola, also known as Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), is a severe and often fatal illness in humans. It was first identified in 1976 near the Ebola River in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since then, outbreaks have appeared sporadically across Africa.
The disease is caused by infection with one of five known Ebola virus species, four of which can cause disease in humans: Zaire ebolavirus; Sudan ebolavirus; Tai Forest ebolavirus; and Bundibugyo ebolavirus. The fifth, Reston virus, has caused disease in nonhuman primates but not yet proven to infect humans.
Ebola viruses are found in several African countries where they primarily reside within fruit bats which act as natural hosts. Humans get infected with Ebola either through direct contact with an infected animal or through body fluids from a person who has already caught the disease.
The symptoms of EVD start suddenly between two days and three weeks after contracting the virus. Initial signs include fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache and sore throat followed by vomiting, diarrhoea and rash along with impaired kidney and liver function. In some cases it causes internal as well as external bleeding that can lead to death if not treated promptly.
There’s no specific treatment for EVD asbola available at this moment although supportive care including rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids greatly increases survival chances. Currently experimental treatments are being tested for their effectiveness against the deadly virus.
To prevent infection spread measures such as regular hand washing should be practiced especially when visiting affected areas. Avoiding close contact with sick individuals or corpses suspected to have died from EVD is crucial too since the virus can still be transmitted even after death.
In terms of tips for healthcare workers dealing with EVD patients strict adherence to infection prevention control measures is essential including wearing personal protective equipment like masks gloves gowns goggles etc., safe injection practices proper disposal of waste materials among others.
Vaccines to protect against Ebola are now available and have been used in response to outbreaks. The rVSV-ZEBOV vaccine has been shown to be safe and effective, protecting people from the Zaire ebolavirus. In December 2019, this vaccine received approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to work with governments and partners worldwide in monitoring potential outbreaks and ensuring swift action to curb the spread of this deadly disease.
In conclusion, while Ebola is a highly contagious and deadly disease, advancements in science have led us closer than ever before towards its prevention and control. By being knowledgeable about its features, staying vigilant about possible symptoms, adhering strictly to preventive measures especially when visiting or residing in affected areas we can all contribute towards ending this global health threat.
