5 facts you need to know about Ebola

1. What is Ebola?

Ebola, officially known as Ebola hemorrhagic fever, is a rare and deadly disease caused by infection with one of the Ebola virus strains.

2. What are the signs and symptoms?

Symptoms start two days to three weeks after contracting the virus with sudden fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache and sore throat followed by vomiting, diarrhea, rash, symptoms of impaired kidney and liver function, and in some cases, both internal and external bleeding. Death occurs from organ failure and sepsis.

3. How is it transmitted?

The virus may be acquired upon contact with blood or bodily fluids of an infected human or other animals. Ebola is not spread through the air or by water or in general by food.

4. How is it treated?

No specific vaccine or medicines have been proven safe and effective against Ebola in humans, however two are being tested right now. Basic interventions, such as providing intravenous fluids, maintaining oxygen status and blood pressure and treating other infections if they occur when used early on can significantly improve the chances of survival.

5. How to prevent infection?
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There’s no vaccine to prevent Ebola. The best way to avoid contracting the disease is by not traveling to areas where the virus is found. Wearing masks, gloves, goggles, and practicing careful hygiene whenever in contact with people who may have Ebola is the most effective prevention method.