Epidemiology and Transmission Routes
The pathogen actively circulates in the wild. Natural reservoirs of the virus include fruit bat populations, forest duikers, and African non-human primates (primarily gorillas and chimpanzees).
The primary source of infection for humans is an actively symptomatic patient. Transmission of this highly contagious virus occurs via three main routes:
- Contact — through direct interaction with an infected individual.
- Alimentary — transmission through the digestive tract.
- Parenteral — direct entry of the virus through the blood.
Clinical Presentation
The disease manifests after an incubation period ranging from one to two weeks. The onset of the infection is always acute. Patients present with high fever, intense headaches, and severe abdominal and chest pain. Shortly after, primary symptoms are accompanied by severe gastrointestinal disorders, including vomiting and diarrhea.
One of the most dangerous and characteristic manifestations is hemorrhagic syndrome, which clinically presents alongside a specific measles-like rash. The prognosis is often extremely unfavorable due to the exceptionally high mortality rate.
Laboratory Diagnostics
Since Ebola virus is difficult to propagate in cell cultures, classical virological methods are rarely used. Clinical and epidemiological data remain fundamental to establishing a presumptive diagnosis.
For definitive laboratory confirmation — detecting viral components and specific antibodies — modern assays are utilized:
- RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction).
- ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay).
- IFA (Immunofluorescence Assay).
Treatment and Prevention
Specific antiviral therapy is still under active investigation. Current treatment approaches include the administration of interferon preparations and transfusions of convalescent plasma (obtained from individuals who have successfully recovered from Ebola virus disease).
Preventive measures are divided into two main categories:
- Specific: An inactivated vaccine has been developed. Its use is strictly limited and intended for healthcare personnel working in epidemic foci and specialists handling filoviruses in high-containment laboratories.
- Nonspecific: Based on the strictest possible isolation of patients and rigorous adherence to infection control protocols to prevent nosocomial and laboratory-acquired infections.