Ebola virus disease: An update on current prevention and management strategies

Authors

Mohamad-Ali Trad, University of WollongongFollow
W Naughton, Monash Health
Alison Yeung, Monash Health
L Mazlin, Medecins Sans Frontieres
M O'Sullivan, Westmead Hospital
N Gilroy, Westmead Hospital
D A. Fisher, National University Hospital Singapore
R L. Stuart, Monash Health

RIS ID

111412

Publication Details

Trad, M. A., Naughton, W., Yeung, A., Mazlin, L., O'Sullivan, M., Gilroy, N., Fisher, D. A. & Stuart, R. L. (2017). Ebola virus disease: An update on current prevention and management strategies. Journal of Clinical Virology, 86 5-13.

Abstract

Ebola virus disease (EVD) is characterised by systemic viral replication, immuno-suppression, abnormal inflammatory responses, large volume fluid and electrolyte losses, and high mortality in under-resourced settings. There are various therapeutic strategies targeting EVD including vaccines utilizing different antigen delivery methods, antibody-based therapies and antiviral drugs. These therapies remain experimental, but received attention following their use particularly in cases treated outside West Africa during the 2014-15 outbreak, in which 20 (80%) out of 25 patients survived. Emerging data from current trials look promising and are undergoing further study, however optimised supportive care remains the key to reducing mortality from EVD.