A specialist explained why Ebola cases have increased and warned that the evolution is 'worrying'

The World Health Organization's declaration of a global emergency over the Ebola outbreak underscores the gravity of the situation, particularly as the virus has spread beyond the Democratic Republic of Congo to Uganda. Pediatric pathologist Marta Cohen, speaking with LN+, provided crucial insights into the nature of the disease and the reasons for international alarm.

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It is an alert, borders have not been closed, but isolation and extreme protection measures are recommended in the area where this is emerging, because it has already left the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Cohen emphasized that Ebola is highly contagious, transmitted initially from fruit bats to humans and subsequently from person to person. This direct human-to-human transmission necessitates stringent isolation measures for those affected and extreme caution in affected areas. The expert warned that individuals can be contagious for up to 21 days, even before showing symptoms, making containment a significant challenge.

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It is worrying, because it is highly contagious, meaning it spreads to humans through bats that eat fruit, but also from human to human.

The expert's concern is amplified by the virus's rapid evolution and spread, exacerbated by open borders. Cohen highlighted that the disease progresses through distinct stages, initially mimicking flu-like symptoms before developing into severe gastrointestinal issues, and ultimately leading to organ failure and death if not managed. The lack of a vaccine or effective treatment adds to the urgency and difficulty in combating the outbreak.

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The incubation period is up to 21 days, from 2 to 21 days, and people can be contagious until they have symptoms.

While the current alert is primarily focused on Africa, Cohen urged against widespread panic, drawing parallels to the protective measures employed during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as the use of masks and gloves. The WHO's swift action in declaring an emergency, given the high mortality rate among the reported cases, reflects the international community's heightened awareness and concern regarding this deadly pathogen.

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That is why I believe the World Health Organization has its eye on it and has declared quickly when out of almost 300 cases there are about 88 deaths. All this began a couple of weeks ago, so the evolution is worrying. And there is no vaccine and no treatment.