Ebola Virus Disease: Epidemiology, Public Health Prevention Strategies, and Global Health Implications

Ebola virus disease is one of the most severe emerging infectious diseases affecting global health security. Since its first recognition in 1976, Ebola virus disease has caused recurrent outbreaks, mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, with substantial mortality, social disruption, and health system burden. The disease is caused by viruses within the family Filoviridae and is associated with zoonotic spillover, human-to-human transmission, and high case fatality rates. The 2014–2016 West African epidemic demonstrated the devastating consequences of delayed surveillance, weak health infrastructure, inadequate infection prevention and control, and poor community trust. At the same time, the epidemic accelerated advances in outbreak preparedness, diagnostics, vaccination, therapeutics, and global health security. This narrative review examines the epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, prevention strategies, treatment approaches, and broader global health implications of Ebola virus disease. The review also highlights the importance of the One Health approach, health equity, community engagement, and sustained public health investment in preventing future outbreaks.

Ebola virus disease, epidemiology, outbreak prevention, public health, global health security, One Health

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