What is Ebola?
Ebola is an infectious disease whose causative agent is a virus called Ebola virus. There are five known strains of the virus, one only affects nonhuman primates. It has been quite the epidemic in recent years as many have been infected and died in some parts of Africa; West, Central, East and some parts of South Africa. Very few cases have been found in America and Europe. Ebola was first discovered in 1976 near the Ebola river in Zaire (present Democratic Republic of Congo).
Causes of Ebola
- Contact with infected animals e.g. bats, apes
- Contact with infected human beings
- Contact with infected fluids
- Contact with infected materials e.g. razors, syringes, needles.
The chances of contacting Ebola are relatively low but one can get infected if:
-Located in an area with an Ebola outbreak
-Cares for an infected person
-Directly contacts the virus knowingly or unknowingly.
Symptoms of Ebola
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Stomachaches
- Headaches
- Muscle pain
- Body weakness
- Diarrhea
- Occurrence of bruises or bleeding
There is no known scientific cure for Ebola. A vaccine called ERVEBO is given to people aged 18 years and above to protect one from certain strains of the virus but not all. It may not be curable but can be prevented.
Prevention of Ebola
- Avoid locations of epidemics
- Avoid contact with infected people
- Avoid contact with infected fluids or materials
- Proper protective attire for medical personnel
For someone that has already contacted the virus, this should be done:
- Proper hydration
- Salt regulation in the body
- Intake of painkillers
- Intensive Care Unit services
For people who have survived Ebola, there should refrain from sexual intercourse for a period of time to not spread the virus, intake supplements to boost their immune system and maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising, meditating eating well, having healthy conversations and doing good things in life that make them feel happy to be alive.
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Virus