Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) , Ebola Haemorrhagic Fever

Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) , formerly referred to as Ebola Haemorrhagic Fever is an infectious disease that first appeared in 1976 in two regions of Africa--Nzara, Sudan and Yambuku, Democratic Republic of Congo. Both regions were along the Ebola River.

The disease is caused by Genus Ebolavirus. Genus Ebolavirus belongs to the Filoviridae family (filovirus). Five species exist. They are as follows:

Bundibugyo ebolavirus (BDBV)
Zaire ebolavirus (EBOV)
Reston ebolavirus (RESTV)
Sudan ebolavirus (SUDV)
Taï Forest ebolavirus (TAFV)

Bundibugyo ebolavirus (BDBV),Zaire ebolavirus (EBOV), Sudan ebolavirus (SUDV) are the only ones to have caused death after infection. All located in Africa.

Prevention
  • Avoid secretion-blood, semen, vaginal secretion, saliva, or any body fluids-- from those with ebola
  • Avoid rotting dead animal
  • Avoid eating wild game or bush meat, especially fruit bats
  • Thoroughly cook and wash fruits and vegetable
  • Wash hands frequently with soap or 60% alcohol handwash
  • Avoid those who are extremely sick with ebola or has sign of Ebola haemorrhagic fever. Those who show signs of sickness and health deterioration are very infectious.
  • Handle with care deceased loved ones. Virus can be transferred from the dead
Cure

So far no vaccines exist to treat ebola. Experimental vaccines are being tested.