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.
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.
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