Ebola is a rare but severe, often fatal illness in humans and nonhuman primates caused by viruses within the genus Orthoebolavirus (formerly Ebolavirus ). First recognized in 1976 in simultaneous outbreaks in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo) and South Sudan, it takes its name from the Ebola River. 🔬 Virology & Species
: Spreads via direct contact with broken skin or mucous membranes and the bodily fluids (blood, saliva, sweat, vomit, feces) of an infected person. It also spreads via contaminated surfaces and materials. Ebola is a rare but severe, often fatal
The virus belongs to the Filoviridae family. There are six identified species, four of which cause disease in humans: It also spreads via contaminated surfaces and materials
The virus is zoonotic, meaning it spreads from animals to humans, and can subsequently spread through human-to-human transmission. Ebola is a rare but severe
Symptoms typically appear suddenly after an incubation period of 2 to 21 days (averaging 8 to 10 days). Early ("Dry") Symptoms Sudden fever Fatigue and muscle pain Severe headache and sore throat Advanced ("Wet") Symptoms Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea Impaired kidney and liver function
: Patients are not contagious until they begin to exhibit symptoms. 🤒 Signs & Symptoms