Ebola virus disease is responsible for a very high case fatality rate of around 50-90; it presents as a severe, rapidly developing illness. Several outbreaks of Ebola virus disease have occurred in Central and recently West Africa. Infection is transmitted to humans from animals and spreads within the human population through direct contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. No curative treatment is yet available, but early supportive care with rehydration and symptomatic management improves the chance of survival. Community engagement is needed to control outbreaks. Control of outbreaks requires a package of interventions including case management, surveillance and contact tracing with a good laboratory service, safe burials and social mobilisation. An Ebola vaccination may become available in the near future. The very high case fatality rate and recent major outbreaks require GPs to be aware of the presentation and management of suspected Ebola virus disease.
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