Biological Facts---Distribution---History---Transmission---Symptoms---Treatment & Prevention---Future Challenges

Biological Facts of Ebola Virus

The Ebola virus is part of a group of negative-stranded RNA viruses, known as Filoviridae and mostly not airborne. The Ebola virus is unique among the viruses in that it has a stringy narrow shape, while other viruses are bumpy and round. When viewed under electron microscope, the Filoviridae appear as long form, occasionally branching out forms. They also have forms that resemble a "U" or a "b". Since filoviruses can be extremely hazardous, laboratory examinations must be conducted in maximum-containment facilities.

The Ebola virus consists of 4 strains:

   Ebola Sudan

   Ebola Zaire

   Ebola Reston (causes diseases only within monkeys)

   Ebola Tai (Ivory Coast)

Classification: Level 4 Pathogen (Higher than AIDS, which is level 2)

Incubation Period: 2 to 21 days (depending upon strain)

Host of virus: Unknown

Mortality Rate: 70 to 90 %

 

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