Ebola virus disease remains a public health concern amid new Congo outbreak

Ebola Virus Disease is one of the rarest viruses that may even become a life-threatening illness due to complications if not treated promptly. Although uncommon worldwide, it remains a public health concern due to its high fatality rate.

Initially, the disease was identified in 1976. It primarily affects humans and non-human primates and continues to cause sporadic outbreaks, mainly in parts of Africa. Ebola is not considered a constant global threat; however outbreaks keeps occurring periodically, primarily in Central and West Africa, and currently a new Ebola outbreak has been confirmed in Congo’s Ituri province, with health officials urging everyone to take precautionary measures.

Ebola virus symptoms include flu, fever, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, and sore throat. As the infection progresses, it may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash, and impaired kidney and liver function.

Ebola virus transmits direct contact with infected body fluids such as blood, sweat, vomit, urine, saliva, or semen. To prevent the spread of this disease, people are urged to keep their surfaces clean and avoid close contact with persons having symptoms and infected individuals.

Though there is no certain treatment for the Ebola virus, early treatment enhances survival. Supportive care includes oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, and electrolyte management. Furthermore, approved monoclonal antibody treatments can assist target the virus and minimize the mortality rates.

The World Health Organization has declared an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda a public health emergency of international concern. It is pertinent to mention that Ebola remains a dangerous disease, and progression in medical treatment and outbreak control have significantly enhanced survival rates. Early detection and timely medical care is the perfect key to manage the infection effectively.