Ebola virus disease - Recognizing the face of a rare killer

For many Americans, the movie Outbreak was our first introduction to Ebola virus. However, we may have dismissed it as mere cinematic sensationalism until the deadly outbreak of Ebola virus disease occurred in Zaire last May. Fortunately, few cases have been seen in the United States, but primary care physicians should nonetheless be aware of the signs and symptoms. In this article, Dr Sodhi reviews the history of the virus, manifestations of the infection, and appropriate management and preventive measures.