Filoviruses

Filoviruses are a family of viruses that cause severe and often fatal hemorrhagic fever in humans and non-human primates. The two main types of filoviruses are Ebola and Marburg.

Transmission

Filoviruses are primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, sweat, and saliva. They can also be spread through contact with contaminated objects or surfaces. In some cases, transmission has occurred through airborne particles in healthcare settings where proper infection control measures were not in place.

Symptoms

The symptoms of filovirus infection typically begin within 2-21 days after exposure and may include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Weakness
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Bleeding or bruising

Diagnosis

Diagnosing filovirus infection can be challenging, as the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases. Laboratory tests, such as reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), are used to confirm the presence of the virus.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for filovirus infection, but supportive care, such as fluid replacement, oxygen therapy, and management of bleeding and other complications, can improve survival rates. Experimental treatments, including antiviral medications and vaccines, are being developed and tested.

Prevention

Preventing filovirus transmission requires careful attention to infection control measures, including:

• Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, masks, and gowns
• Practicing proper hand hygiene
• Avoiding contact with infected bodily fluids
• Using sterile equipment and supplies
• Implementing safe burial practices

Outbreaks

Filovirus outbreaks have occurred in various parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and Europe. The largest outbreak to date was the 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, which resulted in over 28,000 cases and 11,000 deaths.

Vaccines

Several filovirus vaccines are being developed and tested, including the rVSV-ZEBOV vaccine, which has been shown to be highly effective in preventing Ebola infection. Other vaccines, such as the Ad26.ZEBOV and MVA-BN-Filo vaccines, are also being developed and tested.