Question 1

What is Ebola virus disease?

Accepted Answer

Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a rare but severe hemorrhagic illness caused by infection with a virus of the genus Ebolavirus, often resulting in fever, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, and in some cases, internal or external bleeding.
Source: CDC

Question 2

How does the Ebola virus spread?

Accepted Answer

Ebola virus spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids-such as blood, saliva, vomit, or urine-of an infected person or contaminated surfaces. It is not airborne.
Source: CDC

Question 3

Can Ebola virus be cured?

Accepted Answer

There is no universal cure for Ebola, but supportive care (such as rehydration and symptom management) and certain antiviral and monoclonal antibody treatments-like INMAZEB or ansuvimab-have shown success in reducing mortality.
Source: WHO

Question 4

Where did the Ebola virus originate?

Accepted Answer

The Ebola virus was first identified in 1976 near the Ebola River in what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is believed to have originated in fruit bats, which are natural hosts.

Question 5

What causes Ebola virus disease?

Accepted Answer

EVD is caused by infection with a virus from the genus Ebolavirus. Human outbreaks typically begin through contact with infected animals and then spread between people.

Question 6

What are the symptoms of Ebola virus?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms include high fever, muscle pain, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, bleeding, organ failure, or shock. Symptoms usually appear 2–21 days after exposure.

Question 7

Is the Ebola virus still a threat today?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Though rare, sporadic outbreaks still occur in parts of Africa. Global health organizations continue to monitor and respond to outbreaks with vaccination and containment strategies.

Question 8

How is Ebola virus diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

Ebola is diagnosed using lab tests such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, which detect the virus in blood or other bodily fluids, typically in specialized laboratories.

Question 9

Why is the Ebola virus considered so deadly?

Accepted Answer

Ebola causes severe immune and organ system damage and can lead to internal bleeding and death. Some strains of the virus have fatality rates of up to 90% without medical intervention.

Question 10

Who discovered the Ebola virus?

Accepted Answer

The Ebola virus was discovered in 1976 by a team of scientists including Dr. Peter Piot. It was named after the Ebola River near the site of the first known outbreak.\

Ebola Virus Disease Medications