Ebola

Ebola virus disease (EVD) is an acute viral infection with an average fatality rate of 50% (ranging from 30% to 90% depending on the strain) (WHO). The virus belongs to the filovirus family and is transmitted through direct contact with the body fluids of an infected person or animal. 

Origin and transmission of the Ebola virus

Where does the Ebola virus come from?

Named after a river in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where the first outbreaks occurred in 1976, Ebola has since triggered over 20 epidemics across Central and West Africa.

How is Ebola transmitted?

• Animal transmission: fruit bats are suspected of being the natural reservoir of the virus. Contact with infected animals (monkeys, antelopes, porcupines) can lead to human infection.
• Human-to-human transmission: the virus spreads via direct contact with an infected person’s body fluids (blood, sweat, urine, saliva, etc.). It can also be transmitted through unprotected sex or from mother to child through breastfeeding.
• Exposure of healthcare staff: without adequate protection, healthcare workers are particularly at risk. 

Essential prevention measures 

• Frequent handwashing
• Use of personal protective equipment (masks, gloves)
• Rapid isolation of infected patients
• Community awareness campaigns
• Vaccination 

What are the symptoms of the Ebola virus? 

Symptoms appear between 2 and 21 days after infection. 

Early symptoms:

• High fever (+38°C)
• Extreme fatigue
• Headache and sore throat

Advanced symptoms:

• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Rashes
• Internal and external bleeding 

Early diagnosis and rapid medical intervention significantly increase the chances of survival.