Ebola Definition

Ebola virus causes hemorrhagic fevers an illness identified with severe bleeding (hemorrhage), organ failure and death in many cases. Both viruses originate from Africa, where intermittent epidemic has occurred for many years now.
Ebola virus survives in animal hosts, and humans can be affected by from the infected animals. On infecting human beings, the viruses can transmit from one to another through contact with body fluids or infected needles.

Ebola Symptoms

Symptoms mostly begin unexpectedly within ten days of the virus infection which can include:

• Rise in temperature
• Severe headache
• Joint and muscle pain
• Shivers and weakness

Over time, these signs become very severe and may cause:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea and blood in the stool
• Redness of the eyes
• Rashes
• Chest pain and cough
• Stomach ache
• Weight loss
• Internal bleeding and bleeding from the eyes

Ebola Risk Factors

The risk of being infected with the virus increases under the following conditions:

• Take a trip to Africa
• Individuals who research on monkeys or chimp imported from countries that have been under the virus attack (Africa or Philippines)
• Caretakers of individuals who are infected by the virus or those who bury someone infected by the virus

Ebola Diagnosis

Ebola is hard to diagnose as it bears resemblance to thyphoid and malaria fevers. The physician quickly runs blood tests which include:

• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
• Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (PCR)

If tests turns positive to the presence of the virus, the patient is immediately isolated from the public to prevent contamination and spread of the disease.

Ebola Treatment

There is no treatment for Ebola. However, the symptoms are dealt with

• Fluids
• Oxygen
• Blood transfusion
• Maintaining blood pressure levels
• Treating any other infections that develop