Ebola Facts and Resources

What is Ebola?

The Ebola Virus Desease (EVD) is a severe viral disease caused by an infection with a species of Ebola virus. In 1976, the first Ebola virus species was discovered in what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo, near the Ebola River. Since 1976, outbreaks have appeared sporadically.

How is it transmitted?

Ebola is spread by direct contact with:

• Objects contaminated with the virus (needles or medical supplies)
• Infected animals (contact with blood or fluids)
• Body fluids of a symptomatic person (blood, saliva, semen, stool, sweat, urine, as well as other bodily fluids)

Ebola is not spread through the air, food, or by water.

There is no evidence that mosquitos or other insects can transmit Ebola.

What are the symptoms?

Early symptoms include:

• Fever (greater than 101.5◦F)
• Weakness
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Followed by vomiting and diarrhea

Advanced symptoms include:

• Mental confusion
• Bleeding inside and outside the body
• Shock
• Multi‐organ failure

 

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Additional Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals
• Community Ebola Presentation from LDHH

Disclaimer: The information provided above was submitted by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals.