03/07/2026
📢 PSO–HNS Health Advisory: Ebola Disease Awareness
The Philippine Society of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (PSO–HNS) shares this important public health advisory to raise awareness on the recent Ebola virus disease (Bundibugyo ebolavirus) outbreak reported by the WHO. Ebola is a severe, often fatal viral illness transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated materials.
⚠️ When to Suspect Ebola
Consider Ebola in patients presenting with an acute febrile illness AND a history of possible exposure within the last 21 days, such as:
• Travel to or residence in affected areas
• Contact with a confirmed or probable Ebola case
Early symptoms:
• Fever
• Severe fatigue/weakness
• Headache•
Muscle/body pains
• Sore throat
• Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
Severe signs:
• Unexplained bleeding (gum, GI, skin)
• Shock
• Multi-organ dysfunction
🧪 Diagnosis
• Confirmed via RT-PCR testing
• Specialized testing conducted in designated reference laboratories (e.g., RITM)
🏥 Management
• No specific cure or vaccine currently available for Bundibugyo virus
• Management is supportive and intensive, ideally in strict isolation facilities
• Early detection, isolation, and contact tracing are critical
🛑 Infection Prevention & Control
Healthcare workers must strictly observe:
• Proper handwashing and hand hygiene before and after patient contact
• Barrier precautions (gowns, masks, gloves, face protection)
• Entry restrictions for high-risk travel history patients
• Immediate isolation of suspected cases
🚨 Public Health Reminder
While no local cases are reported, vigilance is essential. Early recognition and proper infection control can save lives and prevent spread.
Stay informed. Stay protected. Protect your patients and your community.