Programme Santé USAID/Santé Communautaire : Module Eau, Hygiène et Assainissement (WASH)

The disease can be transmitted from animals to humans and from person to person. The virus can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, their secretions, or by consuming undercooked or poorly cooked meat. Person-to-person transmission occurs through contact with the biological secretions of infected individuals, such as blood, stool, vomit, sweat, urine, semen, saliva, tears, and mucus. The symptoms of Ebola include a sudden onset of fever, intense weakness, muscle and joint pain, headache, and irritation of the throat. In some cases, symptoms may progress to include vomiting with blood, diarrhea with blood, the appearance of "blisters" with blood, bleeding gums, nosebleeds, and eyes injected with blood. The incubation period of Ebola is 2 to 21 days. Prevention measures against Ebola involve applying basic hygiene rules by the community. These measures include washing hands with soap and water at various times, such as after using the toilet, before eating, before feeding others, upon returning home, and after handling the bodies of deceased individuals. It is also essential to avoid touching an infected person and their bodily fluids, as well as handling or consuming wild game meat or touching/dealing with animal carcasses. Additionally, individuals should not manipulate the bodies of deceased Ebola patients or their belongings, and should properly dispose of waste. The risk of transmission is highest among close family members and friends who live with an infected individual. Ebola can be transmitted as soon as the fever appears, making prompt action crucial in preventing the spread of the disease. While there is currently no available vaccine or direct treatment for the virus, early care of the patient increases the chances of recovery.