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What are the symptoms of an Ebola or Marburg virus infection?
The first symptoms usually feel like the flu. They include:
- Fever.
- Chills.
- Feeling tired.
You may also have:
- Headaches.
- Muscle pain.
- Diarrhea.
- Vomiting and a stomachache.
- A rash.
- Bleeding (hemorrhage) under the skin, in internal organs, or from openings in the body such as the mouth, eyes, or ears. This usually happens later in the disease.
The symptoms appear suddenly from 2 to 21 days after you are exposed to the virus. But most people see symptoms in 8 to 10 days.
How is an Ebola or Marburg virus infection treated?
There is no medicine that cures an Ebola or Marburg virus infection. You will be treated in a hospital and separated from other patients. Treatment may include:
- Fluids through a vein (IV).
- Watching oxygen levels and blood pressure.
- Blood transfusions, if needed.
- Treating other infections if they occur.
- Help with breathing in an intensive care unit (ICU).
How well or fast you recover depends on how strong your immune system is and the quality of care you get.
Ebola and Marburg virus infections: When to call
If you have symptoms of the illness, do not go to a health facility without calling first. Calling first will help the health care team take better care of you and protect others from the illness.
Call a doctor now if:
- You have flu-like symptoms and you may have been exposed to the virus.
- You have been in close contact with someone who is infected with the virus. You may need to watch for symptoms and avoid exposing others to the virus.
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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.