Ebola replicates in the lungs, suggests possible transmission through breathing

Researchers detected Ebola viral RNA in the lungs of an infected healthcare worker after traces of the virus were undetectable in blood plasma. The findings suggest the virus may have replicated in the lungs, which would have implications for human-to-human transmission of Ebola, according to a new study published in PLOS Pathogens.

Advertisement

While the pathogenesis of Ebola has been primarily linked to transmission via contact with contaminated blood, stool or vomit, the virus has also been detected in semen, urine, sweat, tears and breast milk. The new findings suggest breathing might play a role in the transmission of Ebola.

“Further investigation is needed to better understand the clinical significance of the involvement of the respiratory tract in viral replication and shedding and possible contribution to respiratory impairment and human-to-human transmission,” wrote the authors.

More articles on infection control: 
Heartburn medications linked to C diff in new study 
Central catheters don’t need to be used for saline, study suggests 
Researcher turns surgical masks into virus-killing devices

At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.

Register to Attend Webinar

The 2 KPIs that drive readmissions — and how hospitals act on them in real time

Tuesday, August 11
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM CDT

Presenter: Nik Rao, Dexur

Advertisement

Next Up in Clinical Leadership & Infection Control

Advertisement

Comments are closed.