Ebola and Marburg are severe viral infections that can affect many organs in the body. They are rare but very serious diseases that can spread from animals to humans, and then from person to person through body fluids such as blood, saliva, vomit, urine, or semen. Communities near game parks, areas where outbreaks have happened before, or people who handle bushmeat are at higher risk.
If you think you may have been exposed to Ebola or Marburg, you can book a consultation with Hope Plus to speak directly with a healthcare provider. They can guide you on immediate steps, testing, and precautions to protect yourself and your family.
Early Symptoms to Watch For
- Sudden high fever
- Weakness and extreme tiredness
- Headache and muscle pains
- Loss of appetite
- Red eyes or mild conjunctivitis
Symptoms That Can Appear Later
- Severe diarrhoea, sometimes with blood
- Vomiting
- Bleeding from the mouth, nose, or other areas
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Confusion, seizures, or other brain-related symptoms
- Miscarriage in pregnant women
Not all patients will have bleeding. Many people will have fever, weakness, and vomiting first.
What to Do If You Suspect Infection
- Seek medical care immediately at a hospital or health centre prepared for viral infections. Early hospital care is critical.
- Avoid contact with others until you have been assessed by a healthcare provider.
- Do not care for sick people without protective gear.
- Inform health authorities so they can trace contacts and prevent further spread.
Caring for Patients and Preventing Spread
- Healthcare providers wear full protective equipment, including gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection.
- Hands and surfaces are disinfected thoroughly.
- Deceased patients are handled with strict safety rules to prevent infection.
- Family members and communities are educated about safe practices and avoiding contact with wild animals or bushmeat.
Prevention
- Avoid handling or eating wild animals, especially monkeys and bats.
- Practice strict hand hygiene and avoid contact with sick people’s body fluids.
- Use condoms if a partner has recently recovered from Ebola or Marburg.
- Follow all guidance from local health authorities during outbreaks.
