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.