Outbreak of Ebola Haemorrhagic Fever in the Republic of the Congo

Update 1: May 27, 2005 

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is monitoring an outbreak of Ebola haemmorhagic fever (EHF) in the Republic of the Congo.

A total of 12 cases of Ebola haemorrhagic fever, including nine deaths, have been reported out of Etoumbi and Mbomo, in the region of Cuvette Ouest, in the Republic of the Congo [map]. At this time, one case has been laboratory-confirmed and the remaining eleven have been epidemiologically linked to the index case. A total of 71 contacts are currently being monitored.

Source: World Health Organization (WHO)

Ebola haemorrhagic fever (EHF) is a severe and acute viral illness, often causing death in humans and other primates (monkeys and chimpanzees). It occurs in sporadic outbreaks, often centred in hospitals with sub-standard medical practices that foster the spread of the virus. EHF is caused by one of two groups (i.e., genera) of viruses in the family Filoviridae. Ebola virus is spread from person to person through direct contact with body fluids (e.g., blood, semen, vaginal fluid, organs) of an infected person.

The incubation period of the Ebola virus ranges from 2 to 21 days. EHF symptoms often begin within a few days of becoming infected, with the sudden onset of high fever, weakness, muscle pain, headache and sore throat. This is quickly followed by more severe symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, rash, decreased kidney and liver functioning, and internal and external bleeding. Specific laboratory blood tests can confirm diagnosis.

Recommendations

Additional Information:

For additional information on Infection control for viral haemorrhagic fevers in the African health care setting, click here

As a reminder to Canadians Travelling Internationally...

The Public Health Agency of Canada routinely recommends that Canadian international travellers seek the advice of their personal physician or travel clinic prior to international travel, regardless of destination, for an individual risk assessment to determine their individual health risks and their need for vaccination, preventative medication and personal protective measures.

The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends, as well, that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada should seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician, without being asked, that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada , and where they have been.