Containment in Action: The Fight Against Ebola

Prompt

Bioterrorism Agent: Ebola Virus Category: Category A (High-priority agent per CDC) Route of Transmission: Direct contact with infected bodily fluids (blood, saliva, vomit, feces, urine, sweat, breast milk, semen) Exposure to contaminated objects (needles, medical equipment) Contact with infected animals (bats, primates) Not airborne under normal conditions Risk of Exposure: Healthcare workers and laboratory personnel handling specimens Family members or caregivers in close contact with infected individuals Individuals in outbreak regions (Central and West Africa) Researchers working with Ebola virus Top 4 Signs and Symptoms: Fever (≥101°F or 38.3°C) Severe headache and muscle pain Vomiting and diarrhea Unexplained bleeding or bruising Infection Control Practices to Implement: Strict isolation precautions (Airborne, Contact, and Droplet precautions in suspected cases) Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (gown, gloves, N95 mask, eye protection, face shield) Hand hygiene (soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer if hands are not visibly soiled) Safe handling and disposal of contaminated materials (sharps, bedding, and bodily fluids) Dedicated medical equipment for infected patients Proper decontamination of environment using approved disinfectants (e.g., bleach solutions) Treatment Options: Supportive Care: IV fluids and electrolyte replacement Oxygen therapy if needed Blood transfusions for severe bleeding Treat secondary infections Specific Therapies: Monoclonal antibody treatments (e.g., Inmazeb and Ebanga) Experimental antivirals (e.g., Remdesivir—limited efficacy) Vaccine: Ervebo (rVSV-ZEBOV) available for prevention in high-risk areas

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