• E S Lloyd, S R Zaki, P E Rollin, K Tshioko, M A Bwaka, T G Ksiazek, P Calain, W J Shieh, M K Kondé, E Verchueren, H N Perry, L Manguindula, J Kabwau, R Ndambi, and C J Peters.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30333, USA. pyr3@cdc.gov
• J. Infect. Dis. 1999 Feb 1; 179 Suppl 1: S274-80.

AbstractAfter the large-scale outbreak of Ebola hemorrhagic fever (EHF) in Bandundu region, Democratic Republic of the Congo, a program was developed to help detect and prevent future outbreaks of EHF in the region. The long-term surveillance and prevention strategy is based on early recognition by physicians, immediate initiation of enhanced barrier-nursing practices, and the use of an immunohistochemical diagnostic test performed on formalin-fixed skin specimens of patients who die of suspected viral hemorrhagic fever. The program was implemented in September 1995 during a 4-day workshop with 28 local physicians representing 17 of 22 health zones in the region. Specimen collection kits were distributed to clinics in participating health zones, and a follow-up evaluation was conducted after 6 months. The use of a formalin-fixed skin specimen for laboratory confirmation of EHF can provide an appropriate method for EHF surveillance when linked with physician training, use of viral hemorrhagic fever isolation precautions, and follow-up investigation.

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