Ecological Hazards - Ebola

These flashcards cover key concepts and facts related to ecological hazards, specifically focusing on Ebola and its characteristics.

What defines an ecological hazard?

An ecological hazard is a biological hazard that can affect both humans and animals.

What is a zoonotic disease?

zoonotic disease is one that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

List five symptoms of Ebola.

Fever, severe headaches, muscle pain, vomiting, and unexplained bleeding.

What is meant by 'vulnerability' in the context of ecological hazards?

Vulnerability refers to the level of risk a group is at in relation to a particular hazard.

What is an example of a biological hazard?

Ebola is an example of a biological hazard.

What does 'asymptomatic' mean?

Asymptomatic refers to a condition where an individual has a disease or infection but does not show any symptoms.

Adaptation is…

The steps are taken during or after a hazard to reduce risk

Risk is…

The level of exposure to injury or loss and is influenced by how potentially dangerous a hazard

What are the key focuses in the study of ecological hazards?

Bushfires, infectious diseases, and plant invasions.

What is spatial distribution?

Spatial distribution refers to where a hazard is situated and the area it affects.

Explain how Ebola is transmitted

Ebola is primarily transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person, such as blood, saliva, sweat, vomit, or other secretions. It can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or materials (like needles or bedding) that have been exposed to these fluids. In addition, the virus can be transmitted through contact with infected animals, such as bats and nonhuman primates, which are considered natural reservoirs for the virus. The transmission risk increases during the outbreak when healthcare settings may lack protective equipment and hygiene practices.

Proximity is..

How close a group is to a hazard

Characteristics of Ebola

Ebola is a viral hemorrhagic fever known for causing severe illness with high mortality rates, transmitted through bodily fluids, and often presenting with symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and bleeding.

Define the ‘wet phase’ of Ebola

The wet phase of Ebola refers to the period during the infection when the virus induces significant fluid loss in the body, including severe diarrhea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration and is often marked by the high-risk transmission of the virus.

When and where did the first outbreak of Ebola occur?

The first outbreak of Ebola occurred in 1976 in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo) near the Ebola River.

A single Strand RNA with ~19000 nucleotides is referred to as which virus?

Ebola