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Microbiology · Coronaviruses

Ebola virus

Ebola virus

Ebola virus is a highly pathogenic agent causing severe hemorrhagic fever. The infection is characterized by rapid progression, pronounced hemorrhagic syndrome, and mortality rates that can reach 90%.

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SerotypesThere are 3 recognized serotypes of the Ebola virus
MortalityMortality from the infection reaches 90%
IncubationThe latent period lasts from 7 to 14 days
CultivationThe pathogen grows poorly in cell cultures
3 min readFor medical studentsUpdated Sep 25, 2026
Material prepared by WhiteCoat Pro editorial team based on platform study guidesReviewed by medical editor: Aulov A. A., general practitioner · 09/24/2026

Epidemiology and transmission routes

The pathogen actively circulates in the wild. The natural reservoir for the virus includes fruit bat populations, forest antelopes, and African monkeys (primarily gorillas and chimpanzees).

The primary source of infection for others is an already infected individual. Transmission of the highly contagious virus occurs via three main routes:

  • Contact — through direct interaction with an infected person.
  • Alimentary — transmission via the digestive tract.
  • Parenteral — direct entry of the virus through the bloodstream.

Clinical presentation

The disease manifests after an incubation period lasting from one to two weeks. The onset of the infection is always acute. Patients complain of high fever, intense headache, as well as severe abdominal and chest pain. Digestive disorders such as vomiting and diarrhea soon join the primary symptoms.

One of the most dangerous and characteristic manifestations is hemorrhagic syndrome, which is clinically accompanied by a specific measles-like rash. The outcome of the disease is often extremely unfavorable due to the exceptionally high mortality rate.

Test your knowledge on this topicAssignments from the Microbiology course bank — instant answers and explanations.

Laboratory diagnostics

Since Ebola virus is difficult to cultivate in cell cultures, classical virological methods are rarely used. Thoroughly gathered clinical and epidemiological data remain the foundation for making a diagnosis.

Modern assays are used for precise laboratory confirmation—detecting viral components and specific antibodies:

  1. RT-PCR (reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction).
  2. ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay).
  3. IFA (immunofluorescence assay).

Treatment and Prevention

Specific antiviral therapy is under active investigation. Currently, treatment involves the administration of interferon preparations, as well as transfusions of convalescent plasma (from individuals who have successfully recovered from Ebola virus disease).

Preventive measures are divided into two areas:

  • Specific: A special killed vaccine has been developed. Its use is strictly limited—the vaccine is intended for medical personnel working in epidemic foci and specialists handling filoviruses in laboratories.
  • Non-specific: Based on the strictest possible isolation of patients and rigorous compliance with anti-epidemic measures to prevent nosocomial and laboratory-acquired infections.

Briefly: answers to topical questions

What changes in the body accompany hemorrhagic syndrome in Ebola?

Hemorrhagic syndrome in Ebola virus disease is accompanied by the development of a measles-like rash. The clinical presentation also includes acute onset, fever, headache, chest and abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Mortality reaches 90%.

What effective etiotropic drugs exist against the Ebola virus?

Convalescent plasma and interferon preparations are used to treat Ebola virus infection.

How to memorize

To remember the main transmission routes of the virus, use the acronym CAP: Contact, Alimentary, Parenteral.

Class and exam questions

What is the natural reservoir of the Ebola virus?

In the wild, the virus circulates among fruit bats, forest antelopes, and African primates such as gorillas and chimpanzees.

What methods are used for laboratory confirmation of the diagnosis?

Diagnosis involves detecting viral components and antibodies using RT-PCR, ELISA, and IFA methods.

Is there a vaccine against the Ebola virus?

Yes, a killed vaccine has been developed, which is used primarily to protect medical personnel in outbreak areas and laboratory workers.

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What else to study on this topic

  • Pathogenesis of hemorrhagic syndrome development
  • Features of using convalescent plasma in therapy
  • Strict isolation protocols and operating procedures in epidemic foci
  • Mechanism of action of the killed vaccine against filoviruses
  • Interpretation of RT-PCR and ELISA results in viral fevers

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