Ebola Virus Disease Information and PreparednessTrusted Information and Preparedness Resources

Ebola disease is a rare but serious illness caused by viruses within the genus Orthoebolavirus. Four species are known to cause disease in humans: Ebola virus, Sudan virus, Bundibugyo virus, and Taï Forest virus. The current outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is caused by Bundibugyo virus.Although these viruses are different species, the illnesses they cause are clinically similar and cannot be distinguished based on symptoms alone. Ebola disease can progress rapidly and may result in severe illness, particularly without supportive medical care.

Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood, body fluids, or tissues of a person who is sick with or has died from the disease, as well as contaminated materials and equipment. Ebola is not spread through airborne transmission. Healthcare facilities should remain prepared to rapidly identify, isolate, and evaluate patients with compatible symptoms and relevant travel or exposure histories.

Early Ebola disease often resembles many other common illnesses. Symptoms may include headache, fatigue, muscle or joint pain, sore throat, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or rash. Fever may occur but is not present in every patient.

As illness progresses, patients may develop more severe symptoms including dehydration, organ dysfunction, shock, conjunctivitis, and, in some cases, unexplained bleeding or bruising. Because no single symptom is unique to Ebola disease, exposure history and travel history are important components of patient assessment.

There is currently no FDA-licensed treatment specifically approved for Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus. Management focuses on supportive care, including fluid replacement, treatment of complications, and close monitoring.

Ebola disease develops in stages, with symptoms and transmission risk changing as the illness progresses. The graphic below highlights the typical progression of illness, common symptoms, and when an infected person may become contagious. Understanding these stages can help healthcare personnel recognize potential cases, implement appropriate precautions, and support timely patient evaluation and isolation.