Introduction
Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) is an extremely infectious and fatal disease resulting from the Ebola virus. The disease mostly propagates through direct contact with the infected body fluids. The illness can cause profuse internal bleeding, organ damage, and even death if left untreated on time.
In this blog, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, transmission, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Ebola Virus Disease.
What is Ebola Virus Disease (EVD)?
Ebola Virus Disease is an uncommon but fatal viral infection that is seen in humans and animals. It was discovered in 1976 along the Ebola River in Africa, which is where it was named. The Ebola virus is in the Filoviridae family and has five distinct strains, the most lethal of which is Zaire Ebola virus.
Causes of Ebola Virus Disease
The primary reason for Ebola infection is the Ebola virus itself. The virus is transmitted from infected animals to humans and then from human to human by direct contact.
Primary Causes Include:
- Contact with infected animals (bats or monkeys)
- Direct contact with infected blood, saliva, or sweat
- Use of contaminated needles or medical instruments
- Contact with the body of a dead Ebola patient
- Eating undercooked meat from infected animals
Symptoms of Ebola Virus Disease
Ebola symptoms usually emerge between 2 and 21 days after exposure. The symptoms start like a typical illness such as the flu but get worse later.
Early Symptoms Are:
- High temperature
- Severe headache
- Muscle and joint pain
- Weakness and fatigue
- Sore throat
Severe Symptoms Are:
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Internal and external bleeding
- Chest pain and breathing trouble
- Kidney and liver failure
- Rash and red eyes
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How Does Ebola Spread?
Ebola is transmitted by direct contact with the body fluids of an infected individual or animal. It is not airborne, waterborne, or foodborne.
Modes of Transmission:
- Blood and saliva
- Sweat and urine
- Vomit and feces
- Breast milk and semen
- Contaminated surfaces and objects
Who is at Risk of Getting Ebola?
Certain individuals are more susceptible to falling victim to the Ebola virus because of where they live or what they do for a job.
High-Risk Persons Are:
- Healthcare professionals
- Relatives of patients with Ebola infection
- Individuals residing in areas affected by Ebola
- Laboratory technicians who work with infected samples
- Grave diggers
How is Ebola Virus Disease Diagnosed?
Physicians conduct laboratory tests to diagnose Ebola because its initial symptoms resemble other conditions such as malaria or typhoid.
Diagnostic Tests Commonly Used:
- Blood tests
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test
- Antibody detection test
- Virus isolation in a laboratory
Treatment Options for Ebola Virus Disease
There is no specific treatment for Ebola as of now, but prompt medical attention can help ensure survival.
Primary Treatment Methods Are:
- Fluid and electrolyte administration
- Oxygen
- Blood pressure management
- Management of other infections
- Transfusion of blood from survivors
Complications of Ebola Virus Disease
If left untreated on time, Ebola may result in serious health complications, including:
- Organ failure
- Internal bleeding
- Shock
- Death
Preventive Measures for Ebola Virus Disease
Preventive measures must be taken to minimize the risk of infection and prevent outbreaks.
How to Prevent Ebola:
- Stay away from infected patients
- Use protective equipment while dealing with patients
- Follow proper hygiene and handwashing
- Refrain from eating bush meat
- Vaccination (rVSV-ZEBOV vaccine)
Diet for Ebola Patients to Improve Immunity
Healthy Foods for Recovery:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Protein food such as fish and chicken
- Whole grains and legumes
- Fresh juices and lots of water
Avoid These Foods:
- Processed foods
- Sugary beverages
- Alcohol and smoking
How to Safeguard Healthcare Workers from Ebola?
Healthcare workers are at a very high risk of infection while attending Ebola patients.
Safety Precautions Include:
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) wear
- Disposal of contaminated items
- Regular use of disinfectants
- Isolation of infected patients
- Getting vaccinated https://theechowriters.com/category/health-and-fitness/
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Countries Impacted by Ebola Outbreaks
The Ebola outbreaks primarily happened in countries of Africa, such as:
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Guinea
- Liberia
- Sierra Leone
- Sudan
Myths and Reality About Ebola Virus Disease
❓ Myth: Ebola is spread through the air.
✅ Fact: Ebola is spread by direct contact with body fluids only.
❓ Myth: There is no cure for Ebola.
✅ Fact: Supportive therapy and test medications can increase survival rates.
❓ Myth: Only Africans contract Ebola.
✅ Fact: Anyone can become infected if they are exposed to the virus.
Conclusion
It is a fatal viral disease transmitted through direct contact with infected body fluids. Though no cure exists permanently, supportive treatment and early detection can lead to survival. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15606-ebola-virus-disease If we follow precautionary methods like proper hygiene, the use of protective gear, and vaccination, we can avert future epidemics and save communities.