Ebola disease is a rare and often fatal disease of humans and non-human primates (for example, monkeys, gorillas, and chimpanzees) present in Central Africa. The disease is caused by a small group of closely related viruses. Although the natural animal reservoir remains unknown, bats are suspected to be the most likely source.

Symptoms

Symptoms may appear 2-21 days after a person is exposed to an infected, ill person or an infected animal. Infected people only become contagious after they start to feel ill. Most people will become ill within 8-10 days of exposure.

When infection occurs, symptoms usually begin suddenly. Symptoms of ebola typically include fever, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, weakness, fatigue, sore throat, loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, and unexplained bleeding or bruising.

Severe forms of the disease may lead to organ failure, shock, and possibly death.

Florida Department of Health Actions

The county health departments in each of Florida’s 67 counties have regular communication and interaction with hospitals, medical providers, and laboratories to ensure that appropriate reporting and public health actions are taken. In the event that a patient suspected to have ebola is identified in Florida, the Florida Department of Health will collaborate with health care partners.

Through this partnership we ensure that appropriate patient care and protocols for isolation and infection control are followed. Additionally, through this collaboration with our health care partners we ensure that ebola testing is made available when needed. If ebola infection is confirmed, the Florida Department of Health will ensure contacts are closely monitored for symptoms of illness and take appropriate actions to prevent further spread of ebola.

Guidance for Floridians and Visitors
Guidance for Health Care Workers
Guidance for Laboratories