The Ebola virus is a deadly virus that wreaks havoc on the body. The virus has a high mortality rate, killing between 25 to 90 percent of those who contract it. Let’s explore how the Ebola virus affects the body.

What is the Ebola virus?

The Ebola virus is a highly infectious virus that is primarily spread through contact with the body fluids of infected animals or humans. The virus is believed to originate from fruit bats, who carry and spread the virus but do not get sick from it.

Once the virus enters the human body, it rapidly replicates itself and attacks the immune system and internal organs.

Stages of Ebola virus infection

There are five stages of Ebola virus infection:.

Stage 1: Incubation period

The incubation period is the time between exposure to the virus and the onset of symptoms. The incubation period for Ebola virus ranges from 2 to 21 days, with an average incubation period of 8 to 10 days.

Stage 2: Early symptoms

The early symptoms of Ebola virus include:.

Fever
Headache
Muscle pain
Fatigue
Sore throat
Loss of appetite

Stage 3: Advanced symptoms

As the virus progresses, the symptoms become more severe and can include:.

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Rash
Abdominal pain
Internal and external bleeding

Stage 4: Recovery or death

Some people are able to recover from Ebola virus, while others succumb to the disease. Those who recover from Ebola virus develop immunity to the virus and are no longer contagious.

Stage 5: Secondary infections

People who survive Ebola virus can still experience secondary infections, such as eye, ear, and joint infections. These can be chronic and cause long-term health problems.

How Ebola virus affects the body

Immune system

The Ebola virus attacks the immune system, specifically the white blood cells known as lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are responsible for fighting off infections, but when infected with Ebola virus, they become damaged and ineffective.

This weakens the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off the virus and other infections.

Liver

The Ebola virus can cause liver damage, leading to inflammation and cell death. This can result in decreased liver function and a buildup of toxins in the body.

Kidneys

The Ebola virus can also cause kidney damage. This can result in decreased kidney function and a buildup of waste products in the body.

Central nervous system

The Ebola virus can affect the central nervous system, leading to neurological symptoms such as confusion, seizures, and coma.

Blood vessels

The Ebola virus can cause damage to blood vessels, leading to internal and external bleeding. This can result in shock, organ failure, and death.

Prevention and treatment of Ebola virus

Prevention of Ebola virus includes avoiding contact with infected animals or humans.

There is currently no specific treatment for Ebola virus, but supportive care, such as providing fluids, electrolytes, and oxygen, can help manage symptoms and improve outcomes. Experimental therapies, such as the antiviral drug remdesivir, are currently being studied.

Conclusion

The Ebola virus is a deadly virus that affects the immune system, internal organs, and blood vessels. Understanding how the virus affects the body can help improve prevention and treatment efforts.