Ebola Virus a Major Threat for Dental Professionals: A Review Article.

ABSTRACT

Ebola virus (EBOV) is the causative agent of lethal viral hemorrhagic fever. Since 1970, it has been found in sub-Saharan Africa. However, a current epidemic of 2014-2015, in West Africa, is caused by Zaire species of EBOV. This EBOV belongs to Filoviridae family. Term Filoviridae is derived from Latin word “Filum” meaning thread like based on its filamentous structure. Transmission of this virus can occur through various modes such as person to person, through animals and other routes. Person to person transmission occurs through direct contact with blood, body fluids, or skin of patients. Till date, there has been no reported case of transmission of the virus through saliva. However, some studies have confirmed the fact that all cases with detectable serum level of EBOV ribonucleic acid also show their level in saliva and also considering the fact that incubation period for all bodily fluids including saliva is 21 days. Thus, dental professionals are at risk of acquiring infection if infection control measures are not used. Hence, oral health care professionals should have a thorough knowledge about the oral manifestations of the disease to prevent life-threatening complications.