As concerns over Ebola continue to grow, understanding how the virus spreads is key to protecting yourself, your family and the wider community.
Ebola does not spread through the air. Instead, transmission occurs mainly through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of a person who is sick with Ebola.
How Ebola spreads
A person can contract Ebola when they come into direct contact with infected body fluids, including blood and other fluids from someone who is sick.
The virus can also spread through contact with objects or surfaces contaminated with infected body fluids.
People who are caring for an Ebola patient or handling the body of someone who has died from the disease can face a higher risk of infection if appropriate protective measures are not followed.
Ebola does not spread through the air
Unlike respiratory infections such as influenza or COVID-19, Ebola is not an airborne disease.
This means the virus does not ordinarily spread simply because an infected person is nearby, breathing in the same room or walking past someone.
However, avoiding direct contact with an infected person and their body fluids remains an important precaution.
How can you protect yourself?
Health authorities recommend several basic measures to reduce the risk of infection:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoid direct contact with people who are sick, particularly if Ebola is suspected.
- Do not come into contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person.
- Avoid handling items that may have been contaminated with body fluids.
- Seek medical attention early if you become unwell, particularly if you have had possible exposure to Ebola.
Early medical attention can help health workers assess the situation and provide appropriate care while protecting others from possible infection.
What should you do if you are worried?
If you develop symptoms or believe you may have been exposed to Ebola, seek medical care promptly and inform health workers about any possible exposure.
For information and guidance, members of the public can call 719
The most important thing to remember is that Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person, or through contaminated items — not through the air.
Practising good hand hygiene, avoiding contact with infected body fluids and seeking medical care early can help reduce the risk of transmission.
