No, the virus that causes Ebola is not transmitted through the air.

Ebola is spread between humans by direct contact with the body fluids of a person who is sick with the disease or has died. People become contagious when they develop symptoms.

The virus enters a person through a break in the skin. It also can enter through the mucous membranes, such as the tissues of the nose, throat, vagina or eyes. For example, you can be infected if you touch infected body fluids and then touch your eye.

A wide range of body fluids can transmit the Ebola virus. This includes saliva, tears and sweat. It also includes blood, vomit, urine and stool, also called feces. Semen, breast milk, and vaginal and pregnancy-related fluids also are known to transmit Ebola.

What is the path of transmission?

Research suggests that fruit bats may be the original hosts of the Ebola virus. Other animals that can get Ebola include chimpanzees, gorillas, monkeys, forest antelope and porcupines. There is no evidence that mosquitoes or other insects transmit the Ebola virus.

People may be exposed to Ebola by contact with:

• An infected animal.
• Another person who has symptoms of the disease or has died of the disease.
• Contaminated surfaces or objects, such as clothing, bed linens, doorknobs, needles and other medical equipment.

After people recover, the virus may stay in the body for a time. Tests have detected the virus in semen, breast milk, urine and other body fluids even after many months.

The amount of time from infection to the appearance of symptoms can range from 2 to 21 days. This is called the incubation period. If symptoms develop, medicines and other treatments can be used to increase the chances of recovery.

• Infection: Bacterial or viral?

• Share
• Tweet

May 29, 2026 See more Expert Answers