Understanding Ebola Virus Disease: Causes and How to Protect Yourself from the Resurgent Deadly Virus

Following the new outbreak of "Ebola Virus Disease" in the Democratic Republic of Congo, we examine its causes, symptoms, transmission, treatment methods, and ways to protect oneself from this dangerous virus.

Monitoring "Ebola Virus Disease" after signs of a new outbreak emerge in Congo.

It has become a global public health issue requiring close attention again after reports of an Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Known as one of the deadliest viral diseases worldwide, understanding its origin, symptoms, and prevention methods is crucial for everyone./

Historical records show that the Ebola virus was first identified in 1976 during simultaneous outbreaks, one near the Ebola River in Congo, from which the virus takes its name. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the disease's fatality rate averages around 50%, varying from 25% to 90% per outbreak depending on the strain and access to medical care.

What causes the Ebola virus?

Ebola Virus Disease is caused by viruses from the Filoviridae family, which includes several species. The Zaire ebola virus strain is notably responsible for severe human disease.

Epidemiologically, fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family are believed to be the natural reservoir of the virus, which can then transmit to other mammals such as monkeys.Gorillas,chimpanzees, or wild pigs before spreading to humans.

How does the Ebola virus spread to humans?

Ebola virus transmission among humans is not airborne like influenza or COVID-19 but occurs through direct contact with bodily fluids, including:

• touching broken skin or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth) with blood, nasal secretions, saliva, vomit, urine, or feces of infected individuals.
• contact with environments, objects, or clothing contaminated with infected bodily fluids.
• direct contact with the bodies of Ebola victims during funeral rituals, which is a significant cause of community outbreaks.

How to recognize "Ebola symptoms"?

The incubation period ranges from 2 to 21 days (average 8-10 days). Infected individuals are not contagious until symptoms appear. Early and severe symptoms include:

1. Early stage: sudden high fever, severe fatigue, muscle pain, headache, and sore throat.
2. Severe stage: vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and impaired liver and kidney function.
3. Critical stage: internal and external bleeding, such as bleeding gums, abdominal hemorrhage, multiple organ failure.

Can "Ebola be cured" today?

Many ask if Ebola is curable. Currently, there is no specific antiviral medication for immediate cure. Treatment focuses on supportive care like intravenous fluids, electrolyte balance, oxygen therapy, and maintaining blood pressure. Prompt medical care improves survival chances.

Additionally, vaccines such as Ervebo have been developed and authorized for use in outbreak areas to control spread, especially among healthcare workers and high-risk groups.

How to prevent Ebola and stay safe

Although there are no reported outbreaks in Thailand, those traveling to high-risk areas or preparing in advance should follow these preventive measures:

• avoid traveling to regions with confirmed Ebola outbreaks.
• avoid contact with wild animals, especially fruit bats, monkeys, or other mammals in risk areas, and do not consume undercooked bushmeat.
• maintain hygiene by frequently washing hands with soap and water or alcohol-based gel.
• avoid contact with bodily fluids, personal items, or bodies of infected or deceased Ebola patients.

if returning from a risk area and experiencing high fever, diarrhea, or unusual symptoms within 21 days, seek medical attention immediately and provide a detailed travel history.