Ebola

Background

What is Ebola?

Ebola is a rare but often fatal disease caused by a group of viruses known as orthoebolaviruses. There are six known species, three of which are responsible for most outbreaks in humans:

• the Ebola virus

• the Sudan virus

• the Bundibugyo virus

These filamentous viruses (or filoviruses) are a classic example of an infectious disease that was accidentally transmitted from animal to man and poorly adapted to humans (also called a "zoonotic" disease)

Our research

The Ebola virus was co-discovered in 1976 by ITM researchers Guido van der Groen and Peter Piot, at the time of its first known outbreak in Yambuku (then Zaire, now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). ITM has been vigilant in monitoring and responding to new outbreaks ever since.

In Belgium, we developed and implemented essential protocols, training programmes and infrastructure to effectively manage potential Ebola cases. We prepared diagnostic facilities within our BSL3+ laboratories and served as a national reference for governmental bodies, organisations, and the general public. We continue to collaborate closely with federal and Flemish authorities, offering guidance and support to combat this global health threat.

In Guinea, during the unprecedented epidemic in West Africa (2014–2015), we ran a large-scale blood plasma trial for Ebola survivors as potential treatment (EbolaTx), under coordination of Prof Johan van Griensven.

More information

• WHO factsheet