What is Ebola Virus Disease?

Ebola virus disease is an infectious condition caused by the Ebola virus. It leads to an illness characterized by fever and bleeding. The transmission occurs through direct contact with contaminated body fluids. Symptoms usually appear between 2 to 21 days after infection and people are infectious once they start showing symptoms. There is still no cure but good care increases the chances of defeating the virus. Prevention is essential to reduce viral transmission.

Risks

This condition is caused by a highly contagious virus. Transmission occurs through contact with body fluids, such as blood, sweat, urine, saliva (spit) and broken skin. People exposed to objects contaminated with these fluids, animals or people with the illness have an increased risk of infection. Although highly contagious, the virus does not spread through the air or by touch. Ebola virus is found in West Africa, so people who live or travel to countries with Ebola are at increased risk of catching the virus.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Ebola infection usually appear between 2 to 21 days after infection. People with Ebola infection are infectious once they begin to show symptoms. The early symptoms of Ebola infection are very similar with those of flu or malaria, with fever, sweating, muscle aches and headaches. Later symptoms include stomach aches, diarrhea, vomiting, bruising and bleeding from the mouth, eyes, ears and bowel.

Diagnosis

The early symptoms of Ebola infection are very similar with those of flu or malaria, so early diagnosis can be difficult. Blood tests are used to confirm the infection by Ebola virus. If symptoms are not seen within 21 days this condition is excluded.

Treatment

There is not currently a cure or licensed vaccine for the Ebola Virus. Medical care is necessary to prevent dehydration and to maintain vital functions (especially blood pressure). Blood transfusions are often necessary to replace losses from bleeding.

Prevention

Prevention is very important to control outbreaks of this virus. People with Ebola infection are infectious once they begin to show symptoms, so if a person is at risk of having Ebola, it is important to take care until the cause of illness is confirmed. Avoiding unprotected contact with infected body fluids when caring for people with an Ebola infection, and taking precautions at the funerals of people that died from Ebola can help to decrease the spread of this virus.

Other names for ebola virus disease

• Ebola hemorrhagic fever
• EHF
• EVD

**What is Ebola Virus ⁢Disease?**



**Q: What is Ebola Virus Disease (EVD)?**

**A:** EVD is a severe and often fatal ​disease caused by the Ebola virus. The virus is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids, such as blood, saliva, or vomit, from an infected ⁢person or animal.



**Q: What causes Ebola Virus Disease?**

**A:** EVD is caused by ⁤a type of virus called a filovirus. It is believed to ‍originate in animals, such as ‍bats ⁣or nonhuman primates.



**Q: How is Ebola Virus‌ Disease transmitted?**

**A:** EVD is transmitted through direct contact with:

* Blood, saliva, or⁢ vomit from an infected person

* Contaminated surfaces or objects⁣ (e.g., needles, syringes,⁣ linens)

* Sexual contact⁢ with an infected person ⁤during or shortly after recovery



**Q: What are the symptoms ​of Ebola Virus Disease?**

**A:** ‌Symptoms typically appear 2-21 days after exposure ⁢and include:

* ⁤Sudden onset of fever

* Muscle pain

* Headache

* Fatigue

* Loss of appetite

* Sore throat

* Vomiting or diarrhea



As the disease⁣ progresses, symptoms​ can worsen to:

* Bleeding (internal and external)

* Organ failure

* Death



**Q: How is Ebola Virus Disease diagnosed?**

**A:** EVD is diagnosed through laboratory tests that detect the Ebola virus or its antibodies in the blood.



**Q: Is‌ there a treatment​ for⁤ Ebola Virus Disease?**

**A:** There is no specific treatment for EVD. However, supportive ‍care, including:

*‍ Fluids and electrolytes

* Antiviral medications

* ⁤Pain relievers

* Dialysis

* Blood transfusions



can improve survival rates.



**Q: How can I prevent Ebola Virus Disease?**

**A:** The following steps can help prevent EVD:

* Avoid contact with infected people or animals

* Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water

* Use gloves and protective clothing when handling bodily fluids

* ​Disinfect surfaces that‌ may have been contaminated

* Avoid travel to areas with Ebola outbreaks



**Q:‌ Is there a vaccine for ⁤Ebola Virus Disease?**

**A:** There are several candidate vaccines that have shown promise in clinical trials. ​However, none are currently‍ licensed for⁣ widespread use.



**Additional ⁤Notes for Enhanced SEO Visibility:**



**Keywords:**

* ​Ebola Virus Disease

* EVD

* Ebola virus

* Symptoms of Ebola Virus ⁣Disease

* Transmission of Ebola Virus Disease

* Prevention of Ebola Virus Disease

* Treatment of Ebola Virus ‌Disease



**Meta Description:**

Ebola ‌Virus Disease ⁢(EVD) is a severe⁢ and often ⁢fatal ‍disease caused by the ⁢Ebola virus. Learn about its causes,‌ symptoms, transmission,‌ prevention, and treatment options to protect yourself from⁣ this devastating virus.