Understanding ebola virus disease - Key facts you need

While rare, Ebola Virus Disease is a severe illness that demands global awareness. Don't be unprepared; understanding its transmission and symptoms is the first critical step in public health security. This guide provides the essential, expert-verified facts you need to know.

What are the main causes of Ebola Virus Disease?

• The disease is caused by an infection with a group of viruses within the genus Ebolavirus, which are found primarily in sub-Saharan Africa.
• It is initially transmitted to people from wild animals, such as fruit bats and primates, and then spreads in the human population through person-to-person contact.
• Human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected people, and with contaminated surfaces.

Key symptoms of Ebola Virus Disease to watch for

• The onset is often sudden, with initial symptoms including fever, severe headache, muscle pain, fatigue, and a sore throat, closely mimicking other illnesses.
• Symptoms can progress to include vomiting, diarrhea, a rash, and impaired kidney and liver function, indicating a more severe stage of the disease.
• In some cases, both internal and external bleeding can occur, such as from the gums or in the stool, which is a late and critical sign.

How can you prevent Ebola Virus Disease effectively?

• Avoid direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals by using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and practicing strict barrier nursing protocols.
• Practice rigorous hand hygiene, such as frequent handwashing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after visiting patients in hospitals.
• Avoid contact with animals that could harbor the virus, including bats and nonhuman primates, and refrain from handling or consuming raw bushmeat in endemic regions.

>>> Learn now: Rubella vs. Measles: A Simple Guide to German Measles

Photo Guide Ebola Virus Disease

>>> Read more here: Strep Throat Signs: When Is a Sore Throat More Serious?

Vigilance and knowledge are our strongest tools against Ebola Virus Disease. By recognizing these key points, you contribute to public health safety. For the latest updates and travel advisories, always consult official sources like the World Health Organization (WHO).

>>> Details at: Anaplasmosis: The Tick-Borne Illness You Need to Know