Ebola Virus Causes: The Ebola virus is spreading rapidly once again, raising concerns among health agencies worldwide. Let us explain its symptoms and prevention.

How to protect yourself from the Ebola virus?

Why Ebola Virus Is Spreading Rapidly In Africa: The Ebola virus is once again spreading rapidly in many parts of Africa, raising concerns among health agencies worldwide. Cases reported in Congo and Uganda, in particular, have alerted health experts. A new analysis by researchers from the World Health Organization and Imperial College London claims that the actual number of Ebola infections in Congo may be much higher than official figures.

According to reports, 400 to 800 cases of Ebola may have been reported by mid-May, with some experts predicting the number could exceed 1000. The highest number of cases have been reported in Congo's Ituri province, where the infection has been spreading steadily since late April.

How does this danger spread?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Ebola is a highly dangerous viral disease that spreads through contact with an infected person's blood, sweat, vomit, saliva, or other body fluids. Health experts say the virus doesn't spread through air or water, but close contact with an infected person increases the risk. Doctors, nurses, and other caregivers are particularly at risk.

What are its initial symptoms?

The initial symptoms of Ebola often mimic those of a common viral fever, making it difficult to identify initially. Infected individuals may experience high fever, headache, body aches, weakness, and sore throat. As the disease progresses, vomiting, diarrhea, a skin rash, and in some cases, internal or external bleeding may also occur. Experts say that symptoms can take anywhere from 2 to 21 days to appear after infection. However, on average, patients begin to show signs of illness within 8 to 10 days. Fortunately, infected individuals do not spread the virus before symptoms appear.

How can we prevent this?

According to doctors at Apollo Hospital, caution is the most important weapon against Ebola. Avoid contact with infected patients, wash hands frequently with soap, and avoid touching the blood or body fluids of any sick person. If a person has recently returned from an Ebola-affected area and is experiencing a high fever or weakness, they should immediately seek medical examination. Health agencies also believe that vaccination and contact tracing are proving to be the most effective tools in preventing Ebola. Meanwhile, PPE kits, masks, gloves, and strict infection control measures have been described as essential for health workers.