Ebola Virus

This chapter deals with ebola virus in dogs and cats. It discusses the etiology/pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical signs, diagnosis, therapy, and public health implications of ebola virus disease. The primary target cells of Ebola virus are dendritic cells and macrophages. Other cells, including hepatocytes, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and cells of the adrenal gland, can be infected. Ebola causes severe disease in humans and nonhuman primates. In people, flu-like symptoms occur, including fever, headache, and muscle pain. In the fall of 2014, the AVMA Ebola Companion Animal Response Plan Working Group developed recommendations regarding dog and cat quarantine after exposure to a human with confirmed Ebola virus disease. Public health officials and state veterinarians should be contacted immediately on an emergency basis if a pet is exposed to a person with Ebola virus infection.