Ebola Virus Disease Outbreaks: Lessons Learned From Past and Facing Future Challenges.

This article reviews the history and evolution of African Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreaks from their discovery in 1976 to recent events, focusing on changes in medical and public health responses. It details the virology, transmission, clinical features, and epidemiology of EVD, highlighting significant outbreaks and the international support provided, including the substantial role of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) during the 2014–2016 West African outbreak. Advances such as the development and deployment of vaccines (e.g., ERVEBO) and monoclonal antibody therapeutics have improved outbreak control, alongside strengthened regional public health infrastructure and community engagement efforts. Despite progress, challenges remain due to policy limitations, regional instability, cultural practices, virus persistence, and environmental factors, underscoring the need for sustained international collaboration and capacity building to manage future outbreaks.