Bundibugyo virus: What you need to know about the virus strain at the center of the Ebola outbreak | Health is important

The Ebola hemorrhagic fever epidemic in Central Africa Public health emergency of international concernaccording to the World Health Organization. Ebola hemorrhagic fever is a disease caused by a group of viruses called ortho-Ebola viruses, which is highly contagious and can be fatal if not detected and treated early. The current outbreak is due to a rare form of Ebola called Bundibugyo virus, which is less common than Zaire virus. past outbreaks.

The WHO on Tuesday reduced the scale of the outbreak. Number of suspected Ebola cases Although researchers were able to prove that these patients had another illness or unrelated fever, challenges remain. As the global health community continues to work to contain Ebola, health is important I talked to Dr. Marcus Pereiramedical director of the Transplant Infectious Diseases Program at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, to learn some facts about how Ebola spreads and who is most at risk of infection.

How does Ebola spread? Is it an airborne infection? COVID, hantavirusor influenza?

Dr. Pereira: no. Ebola spreads only when someone comes into direct contact with the body fluids of someone who has been infected with Ebola or has died from Ebola. Body fluids include blood, urine, vomit, saliva, sweat, or feces.

Direct contact means an infected person’s body fluids must enter another person’s body, usually through a cut or mucous membranes in the nose, eyes, or mouth. Touching body fluids alone will not spread the disease, but wiping your eyes or nose afterwards can put you at risk of transmitting the disease.

There is no evidence that mosquitoes spread the Ebola virus.

If someone has Ebola but has no symptoms, can they transmit it?

Dr. Pereira: Ebola spreads only when a person infected with the virus begins to show symptoms. During the incubation period, the period between infection and the appearance of symptoms, patients cannot spread the virus. This period is typically approximately 8-10 days.

Does this mean that people with early symptoms of Ebola, such as fever and body aches, are contagious?

Dr. Pereira: Yes, but it is important to note that if late symptoms such as persistent vomiting, diarrhea, and bleeding are seen, the level of infectivity is much higher. Additionally, the remains of people who have died from Ebola infection can be highly contagious, contributing to the spread of Ebola.

Is there a vaccine for Ebola? What is the treatment?

Dr. Pereira:While there is no vaccine for this particular strain of Ebola, Bundibugyo, there are two FDA-approved treatments for the Zaire strain of Ebola. Similarly, there is no specific treatment for bandy buggy virus.

In this case, treatment usually focuses on hydration and medication to reduce vomiting and diarrhea, manage fever and pain, and treat symptoms. Research on vaccines and treatments for Bundibugyo virus is ongoing.

What else should I know about Bundibugyo stock?

Dr. Pereira:Apart from the lack of current treatments and vaccines, the mortality rate of this virus fortunately appears to be lower (approximately 30%) than the Zaire Ebola virus (historically 60-90%). However, not much is known about this virus because it has not caused as many outbreaks as the Zaire virus.

Is there a risk of Ebola hemorrhagic fever?

Dr. Pereira: Currently, those most at risk from Ebola are frontline health workers, caregivers, and family members who live and work in endemic areas. There are currently no confirmed cases in the United States, and the risk to New Yorkers remains low.

Where are Ebola hemorrhagic fever outbreaks occurring?

Dr. Pereira: The Ebola outbreak is currently concentrated in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.

Is it safe to travel abroad?

Dr. Pereira:Depending on your destination, international travel is currently safe. The risks are higher when traveling to Central African countries. If you are considering traveling abroad, it is important to stay informed about this outbreak. Some airports, such as John F. Kennedy International Airport, Testing of travelers begins People who have been to Ebola hemorrhagic fever endemic areas.

How long could this epidemic last?

Dr. Pereira: We don’t know how long this outbreak will last, but there are some worrying signs that the virus is spreading rapidly in the area. There are also many challenges, including the region’s remote location, high numbers of migrants moving between neighboring countries, and a general lack of health resources. Meanwhile, public health officials have learned much from the 2013-2016 outbreak and are taking steps to stop the spread of the virus.