Ebola Hemorrhagic Fever

Ebola Hemorrhagic Fever (Ebola HF) is a severe, often-fatal disease in humans and nonhuman primates (monkeys, gorillas and chimpanzees) that has appeared sporadically since its initial recognition in 1976. The disease is caused by infection with Ebola virus, named after a river in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire), where it was first recognized.

Ebola is transmitted through close personal contact with severely ill patients and direct contact with infected blood, secretions, and organs. However, travellers should take precautions against the virus, which include careful hand-washing, avoiding contact with potentially infected patients and avoiding contact with ill or dead animals.
 
Travellers should be advised that the Ebola virus is acquired by direct contact with body fluids or secretions of infected patients. Travellers to affected areas should refrain from visiting households possibly affected by Ebola. Those who care for Ebola patients should wear protective gowns, gloves, masks, as well as a face shield. Travellers should also avoid eating meat from primates, which may be infective. The Ebola virus is not transmitted by insect bites.



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