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This is a colorized transmission electron micrograph (TEM) of an Ebola virus virion. (Cynthia Goldsmith)

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Burial of an Ebola victim.

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Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) is a rare and deadly disease most commonly affecting people and nonhuman primates (monkeys, gorillas, and chimpanzees). It is caused by an infection with one of five known Ebola virus species, four of which can cause disease in people:

1. Ebola virus (zaire ebolavirus)
2. Sudan virus (sudan          ebolavirus)
3. Tai forest virus (tai forest ebolavirus)
4. Bundibugyo virus (Bundibugyo ebolavirus)
5. Reston virus (Reston ebolavirus) known to cause disease to nonhuman primates and pigs but not humans.

Ebola virus was first discovered in 1976 near the Ebola River in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since then, the virus has been infecting people from time to time. This has led to outbreaks in several African countries.

Scientists don't know where Ebola virus came from. However, based on the nature of similar viruses, they believe the virus is animal born, with fruit bats being the most likely source. The bats that carry the virus can transmit it to other animals such as apes, monkeys, duikers and humans.

The virus spreads through direct contact (such as through broken skin or mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, or mouth) with:
1. Body fluids such as blood, sweat, saliva, feces, vomit, breastmilk or semen.
2. Objects such as needles contaminated by bodily fluids.
3. Eating infected animal meat.

Symptoms include:

1. Fever
2. Severe headache
3. Muscle pain
4. Weakness
5. Fatigue
6. Diarrhea
7. Vomiting and abdominal pain.
8. In extreme cases blood will leak from body orfices such as eyes, nose, ears and anus.

Prevention of ebola involves avoiding the fluids of those infected. Those involved in the treatment must wear protective masks, goggles, gloves and gowns. It is also recommended to not handle any objects that would have touched any of the above bodily fluids. Bushmeat, an important source of protein for some africans, should be prepared and cooked thoroughly to prevent infection. If a person with the disease dies, the body should be handled with care and properly disposed of, avoiding all direct contact.

When used early, basic interventions and treantments can significantly improve the chances of survival. Providing fluids and electrolytes intravenously, using medication to maintain blood pressure and lessen vomiting and treating any other infections that occur.