Clinical management of ebola virus disease: Current and future approaches

Abstract

Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a notoriously dreadful disease. The acute viral syndrome, which has an incubation period ranging from 2 to 21 days, is characterized by fever and diarrhea, along with bleeding diathesis. Mortality rates are high. The natural reservoir is thought to be the fruit bat of the Pteropodidae family. Nonhuman primates, including monkeys, chimpanzees, and gorillas, are primary hosts to the virus. Transmission occurs through direct contact with bodily fluids containing the virus. Currently available laboratory tests include the rapid diagnostic tests ELISA and PCR. A patient’s chance of survival depends on multiple factors, such as the initial viral load at the time of exposure, their immune response to the virus, and access to proper care. Currently, there is no specific treatment or cure; however, clinical management mainly consists of supportive measures. Novel drugs and vaccines are undergoing clinical trials to determine their safety and efficacy for use in humans.