How does Ebola kill you?

Synopsis

The Ebola virus is first recognized in 1976 following outbreaks in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, named after a small river in the region. The virus, characterized by its long and thin shape, contains a simple genetic structure with only seven genes. Fruit bats are identified as the main reservoir for the virus, which can infect humans through contact with infected animals or their body fluids. The virus spreads rapidly among humans, often leading to devastating outbreaks. Infection occurs through cuts, scrapes, or mucosal membranes, and the virus targets immune cells, spreading through the bloodstream. Symptoms appear within 2 to 21 days, starting with fever, chills, and muscle pain, which can be mistaken for other diseases like malaria. As the virus progresses, it damages the liver and adrenal glands, severely affecting the body's ability to clot blood and produce necessary steroids, leading to critical health complications.