ISSN: 2577-4379
Authors: Anusiem CA*, Ugwueze C, Okafor MT, Anusiem AC and Ugwunna N
Ebola virus disease (EVD) has been a major public health problem right from its first documented outbreak in West Africa approximately four decades ago. It is one of the viral haemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) with a high case fatality rate. Relevant literature published in peer reviewed biomedical journals as well as undocumented experiences in West Africa have shown that a working knowledge of the disease and a high index of suspicion are vital for prompt diagnosis of EVD. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction test (RT-PCR test) is the reliable test for the confirmation of a suspected case of EVD. The requisite precautionary measures, clinical interventions and public health education necessary to control an epidemic must be started on time, and continued until the affected geographical area is certified Ebola virus disease-free. Although there are no licensed drugs nor vaccines for EVD at present, owing to the high number of people dying from EVD and its distressing recurrent epidemics, some investigational pharmaceutical agents have been used to treat people infected with Ebola virus, under the frame work of MEURI (Monitored Emergency Use of Unregistered and Investigational Interventions) duly supported by World Health Organization. These drugs include: ZMAPP, Remdesivir, Favipiravir, mAB, REGN3470-3479, and some vaccines currently at advanced stages of development. Ring vaccinations being carried out in the Democratic Republic of Congo have reportedly proved to be effective. These agents and other effective components of the current management of EVD are succinctly discussed in this paper.Ebola Virus Disease; Treatment; Antiviral Drug
Keywords: Ebola Virus Disease; Treatment; Antiviral Drug
