What Is Ebola?
4. Is It Fatal?
The fatality rate for the Ebola virus disease has varied between outbreaks. The rate of fatality depends on access to medical care, awareness of the virus and prevention strategies. The rate has varied between 25% and 90% in the past outbreaks. This puts the average at 50% fatality for individuals who contract the Ebola virus disease.
Survivors of the virus develop antibodies that may provide immunity against future infections. Although more research must be done, it’s believed this immunity can last for 10 or more years. Other survivors develop long-term complications related to the virus. These complications can include vision problems and joint pain. Survivors need to continue to use care around other individuals. Even after symptoms subside the virus has been shown to live on in breastmilk, semen and other bodily fluids.
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