Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Ebola virus is a highly contagious and deadly virus that causes severe hemorrhagic fever in humans and nonhuman primates. It is part of the Filoviridae family and has significant implications for public health due to its high mortality rate.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Ebola virus triggers a strong immune response, but this often leads to an overreaction causing tissue damage.
The virus primarily spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated objects.
There are several strains of the Ebola virus, with Zaire ebolavirus being the most lethal.
Vaccines like rVSV-ZEBOV have been developed and shown effectiveness in preventing Ebola outbreaks.
Adaptive immune responses, including the production of specific antibodies, are crucial for recovery from Ebola infection.
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Related terms
Hemorrhagic Fever: A group of illnesses caused by viruses like Ebola that lead to severe bleeding and organ failure.
rVSV-ZEBOV Vaccine: A vaccine used to protect against Zaire ebolavirus, showing high efficacy in preventing infection.
Filoviridae: A family of viruses that includes Ebola and Marburg viruses, known for causing severe hemorrhagic fevers.