Where Does the Ebola Virus Live?
Ebola fever researchers believe that
the Ebola virus lives in an animal host that is native to the African continent, on the basis of available evidence, and the nature of similar viruses; however, the exact locations, origin, and natural habitat (known as the natural reservoir) of Ebola fever virus remain unknown. They continue to search for the exact animal.
Just as scientists are unsure of the animal host for the
Ebola virus, they are also unsure how an Ebola fever virus outbreak occurs. Researchers have hypothesized that contact with an infected animal is how the first patient with Ebola fever becomes infected with the Ebola virus.
How Is Ebola Fever Transmitted?
Once Ebola virus infects the first human,
transmission of Ebola fever continues through direct contact with an infected person, or his or her body fluids (such as blood or secretions). The late stages of an Ebola fever infection are typically when the
spread of Ebola fever occurs.
What Is the Incubation Period for Ebola Fever?
When a person becomes infected with Ebola virus, the virus begins to multiply within the body. Symptoms of Ebola fever usually begin about four to six days after being infected with the Ebola virus. The period between infection with Ebola fever and the start of symptoms is called the Ebola fever incubation period. The incubation period for Ebola fever can be as short as 2 days or as long as 21 days.
What Are the Symptoms of Ebola Fever?
Ebola fever symptoms usually appear abruptly. Symptoms of Ebola fever may include:
- Hiccups
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Weakness
- Severe headache
- Joint and muscle aches
- Rash
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Vomiting
- Dry, hacking cough
- Stomach pain
- External bleeding
- Internal bleeding.
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