Ebola Epidemic: A Retrospective Review on Pathophysiology, History, Epidemiology, Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention (1976– 2023)

Margret Chandira  Rajappa; Ranjithkumar  Sivaji; Sanjay  Gnana Moorthi; Venkateswarlu  Bendi

Margret Chandira Rajappa Department of Pharmaceutics, Research Foundation, (Deemed to be University) Yercaud main road, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India.
Ranjithkumar Sivaji Research scholars, 3M.Pharma, Department of Pharmaceutics (Deemed to be University) Yercaud main road, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India.
Sanjay Gnana Moorthi
Venkateswarlu Bendi

Keywords: Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), Ebola Outbreaks, World Health Organization (WHO), Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Zaire Ebolavirus, Sudan Ebolavirus

Abstract

This retrospective review article provides an analysis of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreaks and case studies spanning the period from 1976 to 2023, drawing on authoritative sources including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The review examines pivotal events, epidemiological patterns, and critical interventions employed to mitigate the impact of the Ebola virus. Special attention has been given to significant outbreaks, notably the unprecedented West Africa epidemic (2014–2016) and subsequent occurrences in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This article serves as a comprehensive reference for understanding the evolutionary path of Ebola outbreaks and provides valuable insights for future preparedness and response efforts. Moreover, this review delves into the diverse strategies employed in outbreak control, emphasising the significance of early detection, contact tracing, isolation protocols, and vaccination campaigns. It also examines the impact of community engagement, public health education, and international collaboration in mitigating the spread of the virus. Through a synthesis of case studies, this article extracts critical insights and lessons gleaned from each outbreak, shedding light on the evolution of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. The analysis underscores the pivotal role of research
advancements in vaccine development and therapeutic modalities.

How to cite this article:
Rajappa MC, Sivaji R, Moorthi SG, Bendi V. Ebola Epidemic: A Retrospective Review on Pathophysiology, History, Epidemiology, Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention (1976– 2023). J Commun Dis. 2023;55(4):97-104.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202361

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