Ebola virus
The Ebola virus is a fatal illness brought on by a virus. After entering the body, this virus destroys cells and causes some of them to explode. It damages the immune system and affects all organs by generating internal bleeding.
How Ebola virus gets transmitted
Ebola is less contagious than more widespread diseases like the flu, the common cold, or measles. By coming into touch with the skin or bodily fluids of an infected animal, such as a fruit bat, chimpanzee, or monkey, it is transmitted to humans. Then it continues in the same manner from person to person. Those who attend to the sick or bury someone who has passed away from the illness frequently contract it.
Ebola can also be acquired through contacting contaminated objects, such as needles or surfaces.
Ebola cannot be acquired through food, water, or air. Additionally, someone with Ebola who exhibits no symptoms cannot spread the illness.
Symptoms of Ebola virus
Usually, an individual with the Ebola virus will:
- Rising temperature
- A migraine
- Muscle and joint pain
- An upset stomach
- Extreme muscular weakness
After being infected for two to twenty-one days, these symptoms appear suddenly.
Reduced kidney and liver function, diarrhea, sickness, a rash, stomach pain, and other symptoms are possible. The infection may subsequently result in bleeding from the ears, eyes, nose, or mouth, in addition to internal bleeding.
Diagnosis of Ebola virus
It can be challenging to diagnose Ebola based just on symptoms. Doctors may do tests to rule out other illnesses like cholera or malaria.
Ebola can also be diagnosed using blood and tissue tests.
To stop the spread of the disease, anyone with Ebola will be instantly segregated from the public.
Treatments for bola virus
Although no known treatment exists for Ebola, researchers are still working on it. Two medications have been authorized for the treatment of Ebola. Three monoclonal antibodies make up Inmazeb. An injection of the monoclonal antibody ansuvimab-zykl is administered. It aids in stopping the virus from binding to the cell receptor and entering the cell.
Doctors use the following to treat Ebola symptoms:
- Electrolytes and liquids
- Oxygen
- Medications for blood pressure
- Transfusions of blood
- Therapy for additional infections
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022