What you need to know about Ebola

Oct 7, 2014

What is Ebola?

• According to the CDC, Ebola is a rare and potentially fatal disease caused by infection with a virus from the genus Ebolavirus.
• It was initially discovered in 1976 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and can effect humans and nonhuman primates.

Signs and Symptons:

• Fever greater than 101.5
• Severe Headache
• Muscle Pain
• Weakness & Fatigue
• Vomiting/Diarrhea
• Stomach Pain
• Unexplained Bleeding or Bruising

Ebola is transmitted by:

• Contact with blood or body fluids such as urine, saliva, sweat, stool, vomit, breast and breast milk of a person who is ill with the virus
• Objects such as needles or syringes contaminated with the virus
• Infected animals
• Handling the remains of an infected individual

Treatment and Management:

• There is no FDA approved treatment or vaccine
• Currently there are experimental treatments being administered in some cases
• Recovery is dependent upon supportive medical care and the immune response of the infected person
• If you feel ill, please see a healthcare provider

Important Links:

• HCC communicable disease board policy
• HCC communicable disease procedures for Faculty and Staff (requires login)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Ebola Outbreak and Risks to Travelers
• Advice for college students traveling to West Africa

If you have additional questions, please contact risk.management@hccs.edu or call 713.718.5100.