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ebola virus



Could There Be an Outbreak in the U.S.?

Although movies and books describe major outbreaks of Ebola-like disease in the U.S., they’re just fiction. So far serious Ebola cases have only shown up in Central and West Africa.  The CDC says there’s no significant risk of Ebola in the United States.  It has strong safety measures in place for people who have Ebola and are brought to the U.S. for treatment.



How Do You Get Ebola?

Ebola isn’t as contagious as more common viruses like colds, influenza, or measles. It spreads to people by contact with the skin or bodily fluids of an infected animal, like a monkey, chimp, or fruit bat. Then it moves from person to person the same way. Those who care for a sick person or bury someone who has died from the disease often get it.  Other ways to get Ebola include touching contaminated needles or surfaces.  You can’t get Ebola from air, water, or food. A person who has Ebola but has no symptoms can’t spread the disease, either.


What Are the Symptoms of Ebola?

Early on, Ebola can feel like the flu or other illnesses. Symptoms show up 2 to 21 days after infection and usually include:

·       High fever

·       Headache

·       Joint and muscle aches

·       Sore throat

·       Weakness

·       Stomach pain

·       Lack of appetite

As the disease gets worse, it causes bleeding inside the body, as well as from the eyesears and nose.  Some people will vomit or cough up blood, have bloody diarrhea, and get a rash.


How Is Ebola Diagnosed?

Sometimes it's hard to tell if a person has Ebola from the symptoms alone. Doctors may test to rule out other diseases like cholera or malaria.  Tests of blood and tissues also can diagnose Ebola.  If you have Ebola, you’ll be isolated from the public immediately to prevent the spread.


How Is Ebola Treated?

There’s no cure for Ebola, though researchers are working on it. Treatment includes an experimental serum that destroys infected cells.

·       Doctors manage the symptoms of Ebola with:

·       Fluids and electrolytes

·       Oxygen

·       Blood pressure medication

·       Blood transfusions

·       Treatment for other infections


How Can You Prevent Ebola?

There’s no vaccine to prevent Ebola. The best way to avoid catching the disease is by not traveling to areas where the virus is found. Health care workers can prevent infection by wearing masks, gloves, and goggles whenever they come into contact with people who may have Ebola.


For more information on Ebola, please use the following resources:

Guidelines for Evaluation of US Patients Suspected of Having Ebola Virus Disease

CDC West Africa Ebola Outbreak Press Release

CDC Ebola Outbreak Postings

A to Z Guide on Ebola Virus Infection

World Health Organization's Ebola Fact Sheet