The virus that I find most interesting is Ebola. My interest
certainly stems from the overwhelming media attention it has gotten recently
and its threat to the health of the public. We typically view viruses such as
Ebola or even small pox as having been eradicated though previous public health
efforts, however this virus is quite a current threat. The virus has fatality
rates in upwards of 90% in infected individuals. It can be spread though
animals such as the fruit bat and then from human to human. The virus is not
spread through the air, however it can be transmitted though bodily fluids
which makes it highly transmittable. The symptoms include fever, weakness,
muscle pain, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and impaired
kidney and live function. The incubation period for the virus can be up to 21
days so quarantining is often a necessary precaution.
Prevalence: The World Health Organization, in
partnership with the Ministries of Health in Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and
Nigeria announced a cumulative total of 1603 suspect and confirmed cases of
Ebola virus disease (EVD) and 887 deaths, as of August 1, 2014. Of the 1603
clinical cases, 1009 cases have been laboratory confirmed for Ebola virus
infection.
Life cycle:
Although there is no successfully confirmed treatment, the
virus can be prevented through precautionary measures. By reducing
wildlife-to-human and human-to-human contact, the virus has a difficult time
being transmitted. It should also be known that proper handling and disposal of
Ebola infected bodies is crucial in reducing
transmission. Healthcare professionals must fully protect themselves when
treating infected individuals. The eradication effort is still being
deliberated on globally.
http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs103/en/
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