Laboratory Medicine and Nosocomial Infections: Fending Ebolavirus

The organism that was the most alarming to the public was the Ebolavirus. In the early stages, Ebola might not be highly contagious i.e., contact with someone who is in the early stage might not even transmit the disease.

As the illness progresses, bodily fluids from diarrhea, vomiting, and bleeding represent a hazard. Large-scale epidemics occur mostly in poor, isolated areas without modern hospitals or well-educated medical staff. Many areas where the infectious reservoir exists have just these characteristics. In such environments, all that can be done is to immediately cease all needle-sharing or use without adequate sterilization procedures, isolate patients, and observe strict barrier nursing procedures with the use of a medical rated disposable face mask, gloves, goggles, and a gown at all times. This should be strictly enforced for all medical personnel and visitors.

In 2006 a study testing a fast acting, single shot vaccine began. The study was completed in 2008.

In March 2009, a German research scientist in advertently pricked herself with material containing Ebolavirus. It was decided to vaccinate her with the new vaccine, after which she developed a fever Scientific American reported, "At that moment, when she developed the fever, it wasn't clear if it was due to the Ebolavirus," But after the virus' three-week incubation period passed and no other Ebola symptoms surfaced, it appeared that the vaccine—and not the Ebolavirus—was responsible.

Other hemorrhagic viruses, particularly Lassa virus, Nairovirus (causes Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever--CCHF), and Marburgvirus cause nosocomial diseases. The findings of laboratory investigation vary somewhat between the viruses-usually the total white cell count decreases, serum liver enzymes increase, and both prothrombin and active partial prothrombin times rise. The hematocrit may be elevated. The serum urea and creatine may be raised but this is dependent on the hydration status of the patient. The bleeding time tends to be prolonged.