Ebola virus disease: review and implications for dentistry in Ireland

Précis

The current Ebola virus outbreak has attracted worldwide attention. This article will cover the oral manifestations and dental implications of Ebola virus infection.

Abstract

The current Ebola outbreak in West Africa is a global health emergency with implications for all healthcare professionals. This article will review the clinical features, transmission and oral manifestations of Ebola virus infection, and discuss the implications of the current outbreak for dental practices in Ireland. Guidance for managing suspected cases and contacts is also provided.

Conclusions: Although Ebola is an alarming disease with a very high mortality rate, it is extremely unlikely that the dental team will encounter a new presentation of Ebola or that it will pose a significant transmission risk. The dental team should be aware of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) Algorithm for Ebola Virus Disease Risk Assessment, and it should be followed as necessary. It is advised to defer dental treatment for 21 days after possible exposure to the Ebola virus.

Journal of the Irish Dental Association 2015; 61 (3): 141-143

Sheila Galvin
BDentSc MFDS MB BAO BCh MRCPI
Dublin Dental University Hospital

Stephen R Flint
MA PhD BDS FDS RCSEng FFD RCSI MBBS (Hons) FICD FTCD
Dublin Dental University Hospital

Claire M Healy
MB BCh BDentSc FDS RCSEng (OM) FFD RCSI (OM) PhD
Dublin Dental University Hospital

Corresponding author: Sheila Galvin, Department of Oral Medicine,Dublin Dental University Hospital, Lincoln Place, Dublin 2.
T: 01-612 7314 
E: sheila.galvin@dental.tcd.ie