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Ebola Virus Disease

A high-mortality viral hemorrhagic fever caused by Ebolavirus; presents with bloody diarrhea, severe weakness and bleeding.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Ebola Virus Disease?

Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a viral hemorrhagic fever with high mortality caused by Ebolavirus from the Filoviridae family, causing intermittent outbreaks on the African continent. Case fatality rates vary between 25-90% from outbreak to outbreak.

Transmission occurs zoonotically from animal reservoirs (fruit bats) to humans, then from human to human through direct contact with blood and body fluids of infected persons. Healthcare workers and close contacts are at high risk.

After a 2-21 day incubation period, the disease starts with fever, weakness, muscle pain and sore throat; followed by vomiting, diarrhea, rash and, in advanced stage, bleeding manifestations. Effective vaccines and monoclonal antibody treatments have been developed.

Symptoms

Sudden onset high fever and weakness
Severe headache and muscle pain
Sore throat
Vomiting and watery/bloody diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Maculopapular rash
Bleeding from nose, gums, skin and internal organs (advanced stage)

Risk Factors

Travel to outbreak areas (West and Central Africa)
Direct contact with infected person
Healthcare workers and those involved in funeral preparation
Contact with fruit bats and primates
Contact without personal protective equipment
Home care and contact
Use of contaminated medical equipment

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Febrile illness after returning from outbreak area
  • Symptoms within 21 days after contact with infected person
  • Sudden high fever and weakness
  • Nosebleed, bloody diarrhea
  • Rash and multi-organ findings

Treatment Methods

01
Immediate isolation and care with protective equipment
02
Aggressive supportive care (fluids, electrolytes, blood products)
03
Monoclonal antibody therapies (Inmazeb, Ebanga)
04
Treatment of secondary infections
05
Ebola vaccine (rVSV-ZEBOV) — rapid ring vaccination
06
Notification, contact tracing and funeral protocols

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.