The Ebola Virus
...sease in humans and 1 of which causes disease in non-human primates. Ebola is one of the deadliest diseases known to mankind. The mortality rate varies with the subtype, and ranges 50-90 percent. There are several ways the Ebola virus can be spread. If the carrier’s blood or body secretions come in contact with another person that person will become infected, this can be through shared food, drinks, sexual contact, or needles. Even if the carrier is dead, they can still spread the virus if someone handling the body comes in contact with any secretions or blood while not wearing protective gear such as gown and gloves. Another common method of transmission is through inadequately sterilized re-used needles and medical equipment, a common occurrence in third world countries such as Africa where Ebola is most prevalent. The Ebola Illness has many symptoms, these typically begin 2-21 days after exposure. The symptoms include: headaches, fevers, hiccups, chills, muscle aches, loss of appetite, diarrhea, rash, sore throat, vomiting, chest pain, and massive internal and external bleeding and shock. Once a person has Ebola there are only a few things doctors do to try to help. The patients are isolated to minimize additional potential spread. The patients receive only supportive therapy because there is no true treatment. The care includes the balancing of the patient’s fluids and electrolytes, providing supplemental oxygen, and treating them for complicating additional infections. If the patient is to die, this will occur within 6-22 days...