2011 March 5; 377(9768): 849–862 | Heinz Feldmann, MD and Thomas W Geisbert, PhD
The article provides a comprehensive overview of Ebola hemorrhagic fever, a severe viral hemorrhagic fever caused by Ebola viruses. The disease is endemic in central Africa, with the exception of Reston Ebola virus, which has not been associated with human disease and is found in the Philippines. Ebola virus infections are characterized by immune suppression and a systemic inflammatory response, leading to multi-organ failure and shock. The article discusses the epidemiology, ecology, clinical manifestations, pathogenesis, diagnosis, management, and prevention of Ebola hemorrhagic fever. It highlights the high case-fatality rates, lack of effective treatments, and the importance of proper isolation and barrier nursing procedures in managing outbreaks. The article also reviews the progress in developing countermeasures, including rapid diagnostics, promising therapeutics, and vaccine candidates. Despite significant advancements, there are still knowledge gaps, particularly regarding other species of Ebola virus, and the need for further research and intervention strategies.The article provides a comprehensive overview of Ebola hemorrhagic fever, a severe viral hemorrhagic fever caused by Ebola viruses. The disease is endemic in central Africa, with the exception of Reston Ebola virus, which has not been associated with human disease and is found in the Philippines. Ebola virus infections are characterized by immune suppression and a systemic inflammatory response, leading to multi-organ failure and shock. The article discusses the epidemiology, ecology, clinical manifestations, pathogenesis, diagnosis, management, and prevention of Ebola hemorrhagic fever. It highlights the high case-fatality rates, lack of effective treatments, and the importance of proper isolation and barrier nursing procedures in managing outbreaks. The article also reviews the progress in developing countermeasures, including rapid diagnostics, promising therapeutics, and vaccine candidates. Despite significant advancements, there are still knowledge gaps, particularly regarding other species of Ebola virus, and the need for further research and intervention strategies.