General Information About Ebola Virus
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a deadly virus from the Filoviridae family that disrupts the blood clotting mechanism, causing multiple organ failure and severe bleeding.
The disease is transmitted through direct contact of broken skin or mucous membranes with the bodily fluids (blood, sweat, saliva, feces, etc.) of an infected person (or someone who has died from the virus). It is not transmitted through the air.
After the incubation period (2-21 days), a sudden, very high fever, severe muscle aches, and diarrhea occur. In the following days, the integrity of the blood vessels is compromised; uncontrollable bleeding from the eyes, ears, and internal organs begins.
Yes. According to World Health Organization data, a large proportion of patients in Ebola outbreaks—between 25% and 90% depending on the virus strain—lose their lives.
The patient's travel history (especially to regions in Africa) is crucial. The diagnosis is confirmed by PCR and antibody tests performed on blood or body fluid samples in advanced biosafety laboratories.
There is no approved, definitive routine medication. Treatment is administered palliatively (supportive) under intensive care conditions; the aim is to replace severe fluid loss, perform blood transfusions, and maintain blood pressure to buy time for the immune system.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
