Ebola is a deadly virus that disables the immune system, causing rapid spread and severe fluid loss. Supportive care can improve survival, but is often unavailable in outbreak zones.
- Ebola targets immune cells, delaying the adaptive response and causing a cytokine storm. - Severe vomiting and diarrhea can lead to fluid loss of over 2.5 gallons per day, often fatal.
- Supportive care like IV fluids and blood pressure management can save lives, but is hard to deliver in under-resourced areas. - In the U.S., 9 out of 11 Ebola patients survived due to advanced care, compared to about half in West Africa.