Ebola virus is classified in which Risk Group?

Ebola virus is classified as a Risk Group 4 pathogen. This classification is reserved for organisms that are easily transmissible and can cause severe or fatal disease in humans with no effective treatments or vaccines readily available for general use.

Risk Group 4 pathogens possess several critical characteristics: they can be transmitted through various routes, including direct contact with bodily fluids, and typically lead to serious health outcomes without adequate treatment options. The high mortality associated with Ebola virus, alongside the potential for significant outbreaks, necessitates stringent biosafety measures in research and healthcare settings.

In contrast, options associated with lower risk groups include pathogens that may cause mild diseases or have effective treatments and preventive measures available, which are not applicable to the Ebola virus.