The epidemiological characteristics of Ebola virus disease

Abstract

Ebola was first reported in 1976 in Sudan and Congo and named after the river where it was identified. They cause fulminating disease characterized by acute fever followed by generalized hemorrhagic syndrome that is associated with 90% mortality in the most severe forms. It was later reported in Gabon, Central Africa and between 2 and 4 August 2014, a total of 108 new cases of Ebola virus disease (EVD) (laboratory-confirmed, probable, and suspect cases) as well as 45 deaths were reported from Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. Surveillance and response represent the final crucial steps in achieving effective control of Ebola virus disease, it should be followed by an effective public health response – delivered as integrated packages – with the purpose to interrupt transmission in well defined areas. In addition, intensive efficacy and pharmacovigilance assessment of these interventions including diagnostics, drugs and vaccines against Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases including NTDs must be carefully re-evaluated, and the cut-offs determined and monitored over time, in addition to enhance cross-border collaboration and strengthen effective coordination across African government and populations. Control interventions were very successful in containing the epidemic of EVD.