Since it was detected in March, the number of cases attributed to Ebola in the West African nations of Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea stands at 1,201, including 672 deaths. Two U.S. doctors contracted the virus while trying to stop the spread of the infectious disease.An Ebola virus outbreak in Africa has killed more than 670 people and infected more than 1,000, including two Americans who are battling the disease. The World Health Organization is calling it the largest recorded outbreak of Ebola.USA Network explains why the virus is so deadly.
What are the symptoms?
Initial symptoms include fever, intense weakness, muscle pain, headache and sore throat. These symptoms are followed by vomiting, diarrhea, rash, impaired kidney and liver function and sometimes internal and external bleeding, according to WHO.Symptoms usually appear 8-10 days after infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. WHO says lab tests of contaminated individuals find low white blood cell and platelet counts.
How does the virus spread?
What is the treatment?
Currently, there is no vaccine. Treatment consists only of "supportive therapy," according to the CDC.
How deadly is Ebola?
In past outbreaks, up to 90% of humans who contract the virus have died. WHO describes Ebola as "one of the world's most virulent diseases."
How can Ebola be prevented?
It's unknown what the natural host for Ebola is, but it's believed to be the fruit bat. If an outbreak among animals is suspected, the best practice is to quarantine the animals, cull the infected animals and bury or incinerate (burn) the carcasses, according to WHO. Kindly share this information, we all need be aware.
source:usatoday