Ebola is a rare and deadly disease caused by infection with a virus that can cause illness in humans and other primates (monkeys, gorillas, and chimpanzees).

Ebola is a rare and deadly disease caused by infection with a virus of the family Filoviridae, genus Ebolavirus. Ebola can cause disease in humans and other primates (monkeys, gorillas, and chimpanzees).Ebola was first discovered in 1976 near the Ebola River in what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since then, outbreaks have appeared sporadically in several African countries.

Symptoms

It can take anywhere from two to 21 days after infection for symptoms to appear, but the average length of time is 8-10 days. Symptoms include fever (greater than 101.5°F), severe headache, muscle pain, weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, and unexplained bleeding or bruising.

Prevention

The best way to avoid Ebola is to stay away from areas where the virus is common. If you are in an outbreak area: Avoid infected people, their body fluids, and the bodies of anyone who has died from the disease. Avoid contact with wild animals, like bats and monkeys, and their meat.

Treatment

Symptoms of Ebola virus disease (EVD) are treated as they appear. When used early, basic interventions can significantly improve the chances of survival. These include:

• Providing fluids and electrolytes (body salts) through infusion into the vein (intravenously).
• Offering oxygen therapy to maintain oxygen status.
• Using medication to support blood pressure, reduce vomiting and diarrhea and to manage fever and pain.
• Treating other infections, if they occur.