An Introduction to Ebola
What is Ebola?
EVD, Ebola Virus Disease (formerly Ebola hemorrhagic fever) is often fatal in humans. There is a 50% fatality rate average for the disease in the current outbreak but it has been between 25 and 90% in previous outbreaks. It can be transmitted from humans to humans and to and from animals.
The disease has its roots in the heart of central Africa in remote villages, mostly near tropical rain forests, but has recently been spreading to urban areas and around the world.
Early supportive care, including rehydration can improve the chances of surviving the disease. There are currently other therapeutic remedies, vaccines (2 potential candidates are being tested), and treatments being developed to control the disease and its spread.
Where did it come from?
The Ebola virus appeared in 1976 – in two separate outbreaks – one in Nzara, Sudan and the other in Yambuku, DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo). The name of the disease comes from the Ebola River which is located near Yambuku.
What is different with the current outbreak?
The current outbreak can be traced back to March of 2014 in West Africa. Mostly affecting Sierra Leone , Liberia, and Guinea – areas that lack fully functioning health care systems. This outbreak is different in that is has spread to a larger international audience, including the West - Spain and The United States. Other countries that have been affected include Senegal and Nigeria.