News Genetics

Ebola genome clarifies origins of West African outbreak

A single person infected with the virus probably sparked the epidemic

map of the 2014 Ebola outbreak in west Africa

EBOLA EXPANSION  West Africa is experiencing the largest Ebola outbreak ever recorded (map shows data as of August 19). A genetic analysis suggests that the virus causing the epidemic originated in Central Africa, where previous Ebola outbreaks have occurred.  Source: S.K. Gire et al/Science 2014

redmal/iStockphoto, Adapted by E. Otwell

By Tina Hesman Saey

- More than 2 years ago

Genetic data confirm that the Ebola epidemic in West Africa is being spread from human to human, not through contact with infected animals.