Ebola diseases (EBOD) are rare, but severe and often fatal viral diseases that affects humans and other primates. There are six species in the genus Ebolavirus, three of which (Bundibugyo, Sudan and Zaire) have previously caused large outbreaks. Ebolaviruses are transmitted to people from wild animals such as fruit bats, porcupines and non-human primates. They spread in the human population through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected people, and with surfaces and materials (e.g., bedding, clothing) contaminated with these fluids.
The first cases of Ebola diseases were detected in two concomitants outbreaks in Sudan and in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo) in 1976. Since then there have been several outbreaks in many countries. Outbreaks have since occurred in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Guinea, Liberia, Republic of the Congo, Sierra Leone, Sudan and Uganda. In Africa, imported cases have also been found in Mali, Nigeria, Senegal and South Africa. The 2014–2016 outbreak in West Africa was the largest and most complex ever recorded, with widespread cases and a heavy death toll.
Ebola case fatality rates have varied from 25% to 90% in past outbreaks. However, with the currently available effective treatment, patients have a significantly higher chance of survival if they are treated early and given supportive care.
