Decoding Ebola

An insight on the deadly ebola virus and ways to prevent it

Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) formerly known as Ebola haemorrhagic fever is a rare but deadly virus often fatal to human life. EVD kills up to 90 per cent of people who are infected. As the virus spreads through the body it weakens the immune system and the organs.

Symptoms of EVD

EVD or Ebola fever can feel like flu or other illness and symptoms show up two to 21 days after the infection and usually include:

• High fever
• Sore throat
• Lack of appetite
• Weakness
• Stomach pain
• Joint and muscle aches

This is followed by vomiting, impaired liver and kidney function and in some cases internal and external bleeding takes over.

How it is transmitted?

It spreads to people by contact with the skin and bodily fluids. One can’t get Ebola from air, water or food.

Prevention

Few primary prevention measures have been established and no vaccine exists.

Risk of transmission is increased in the healthcare setting where the patient is treated.

• Wearing of protective clothing (such as masks, gloves, gowns, and goggles)
• Using infection-control measures (such as complete equipment sterilisation and routine use of disinfectant)
• Isolating patients with Ebola from contact with unprotected persons

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Harsha Pradeep
Ziqitza Health Care