Ebola as an emergent epidemic disease is an illustrative example of the Technological Advances and Limitations after 1900: Disease topic in Unit 9 of AP World History. You could reference this example on your AP World History test.
Ebola virus disease (EVD), often simply referred to as Ebola, is a severe and often fatal illness in humans caused by infection with the Ebola virus. The Ebola virus primarily affects humans and nonhuman primates, causing severe hemorrhagic fever with a case fatality rate that can reach up to 90%.
The Ebola virus affects multiple organ systems in the body, leading to a range of symptoms. These symptoms typically begin suddenly and include fever, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and unexplained bleeding or bruising. The virus targets cells of the immune system, causing widespread inflammation and tissue damage.
Ebola spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of an infected person or contact with contaminated objects, such as needles or syringes. The virus can also spread through contact with infected animals, particularly fruit bats, primates, and certain other mammals. Healthcare workers and family members caring for Ebola patients are at particularly high risk of infection without proper protective measures.
The history of Ebola dates back to its discovery in 1976 in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. The first recorded outbreaks occurred near the Ebola River, from which the virus takes its name. Since then, sporadic outbreaks have occurred primarily in Central and West Africa, with the largest outbreak occurring in West Africa between 2014 and 2016. This epidemic, primarily caused by the Zaire ebolavirus species, resulted in over 11,000 deaths across Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone and highlighted the global health threat posed by Ebola.
The Ebola pandemic of 2014-2016 prompted an unprecedented international response, including the deployment of healthcare workers, the establishment of treatment centers, and the implementation of infection control measures. Research efforts intensified, leading to the development of experimental vaccines and treatments for Ebola. Despite these advancements, challenges remain in controlling Ebola outbreaks, including the need for improved surveillance, rapid response capabilities, and community engagement.
Studying Ebola virus disease provides valuable insights into infectious disease dynamics, epidemic control strategies, and the intersections between human, animal, and environmental health. Ongoing research and collaboration are essential to prevent and effectively respond to future Ebola outbreaks and other emerging infectious diseases.
Free Printable Reading Passage on Ebola
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Technological Advances and Limitations after 1900: Disease
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