The Ebola Virus The Ebola virus is a very serious virus and can cause death in 85 – 90% of its victims. This very deadly virus originated in Republic of Congo, but soon after spread to other areas. This cylinder-shaped virus is one of, if not the deadliest of all viruses. The very unique shape makes it easy to verify during a close examination under a microscope. The alarming fact is, by the time a person contracts this very dangerous disease, and sees a doctor, it is often fatal within 24 hours, and it’s fully understandable why so many people fear this disease. Ebola has five species, four of which humans can contract. Only the fifth species of the virus affects animals and not humans. Ebola is currently found in African countries, and was identified in 1976. The name comes from the Ebola River where the virus was discovered. It is assumed the virus is animal born, and thought to be transmitted by bats. Humans get Ebola throughBroken skin or mucous membranes such as eyes, nose and mouth Transmission of blood from an infected person Urine, saliva, sweat, feces, vomit, breast milk, and semen. Needles or syringes that have infected body fluid residue Infected fruit bats, or monkeys Related: International Nurses Association - Cover Letter Tips Ebola Symptoms If you are taking admitting information from patients, you most likely ask the very important question, have you been out of the country recently. A patient that has flu like symptoms and has traveled to certain parts of Africa, should be isolated as a precaution. Symptoms could be present 2 to 21 days after infection, so travel within the last month should be considered. Symptoms IncludeHigh fever Muscle and joint aches