Ebola Virus Disease
From Halbeeg, the open encyclopedia · Af-Soomaali
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Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a viral illness that affects humans and other mammals. It is caused by viruses of the family Filoviridae. The disease is characterized by fever, weakness, muscle pain, headache and rash, sometimes accompanied by bleeding.
The disease was first recognized in 1976, in two simultaneous outbreaks in Sudan and eastern Congo (then Zaire). The name Ebola comes from a river in the region where one of those outbreaks occurred. Since then, various outbreaks have taken place in African countries, particularly in central and western areas.
Cause and virus types
Several virus species exist within the genus Ebolavirus. Those that cause human disease include Zaire ebolavirus, Sudan ebolavirus, Bundibugyo ebolavirus, and Taï Forest ebolavirus. Zaire virus is most commonly associated with the largest outbreaks. Another species, called Reston virus, has been found in animals, but there is no evidence that it causes disease in humans.
Transmission
The virus spreads to humans through contact with body fluids of an infected person or a deceased person, including blood, sweat, saliva, and breast milk. It can also spread from animals that are hunted or consumed. Bats are suspected to be the natural reservoir of the virus, though this has not been conclusively established. Transmission within hospitals results from lack of protective equipment for healthcare workers.
Symptoms and diagnosis
Symptoms typically appear several days after infection. Early symptoms resemble fever or other febrile illnesses, which can complicate initial diagnosis. Diagnosis is confirmed through laboratory tests that detect viral genetic material or antibodies. Infected persons must be isolated to prevent transmission.
Treatment and prevention
Basic treatment consists of supportive care: fluid replacement, blood pressure management, and treatment of complications. Monoclonal antibody treatments have been approved for use against Zaire virus and have been used to manage outbreaks through vaccination of contacts. Vaccines do not cover all virus types.