Ebola algorithm for the evaluation of the returned traveler

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Rim Halaby, M.D. [2]

Algorithm

Is there a FEVER (subjective or ≥101.5°F or 38.6°C) or compatible EVD symptoms (headache, weakness, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain or hemorrhage) in patient who has traveled to an Ebola-affected area in the 21 days before illness onset

Yes

No

1. Isolate patient in single room with a private bathroom and with the door to hallway closed 2. Implement standard, contact, and droplet precautions (gown, facemask, eye protection, and gloves) 3.Notify the hospital Infection Control Program and other appropriate staff 4. Evaluate for any risk exposures for EVD 5. IMMEDIATELY report to the health department

Report asymptomatic patients with high- or low-risk exposures in the past 21 days to the health department

Determine the risk of exposure

HIGH-RISK EXPOSURE

LOW-RISK EXPOSURE

NO KNOWN EXPOSURE

Percutaneous (e.g., needle stick) or mucous membrane contact with blood or body fluids from an EVD patient OR Direct skin contact with, or exposure to blood or body fluids of, an EVD patient OR Processing blood or body fluids from an EVD patient without appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) or biosafety precautions OR Direct contact with a dead body (including during funeral rites) in an Ebola affected area without appropriate PPE