Ebola and water: how infection spreads

Ebola is not normally spread through drinking water. World Health Organization guidance states that there is no evidence that Ebola has spread through drinking water contaminated with urine or faeces.^{[1]WHO water, sanitation and hygiene questions and answers}

Ebola mainly spreads through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of a person who is ill or has died, or with items that have been contaminated by those fluids.^{[2]WHO Ebola disease fact sheet}

Safe water, sanitation and hand hygiene remain important during an outbreak, because they help people and healthcare teams prevent infection and provide care.^{[3]WHO guidance publication}

• Handwashing with soap and clean water, or using an alcohol-based hand rub, reduces the risk of infection being passed on by contaminated hands.
• Health facilities need a reliable supply of safe water to care for patients, clean surfaces and equipment, and protect staff.
• Safe toilets and safe handling of waste protect cleaners, carers, families and waste handlers, who may otherwise come into contact with body fluids.
• Good water and sanitation also reduce other illnesses, such as diarrhoeal disease, which place extra pressure on health services during an outbreak.

The information on this page comes from the World Health Organization. Each button opens the official WHO page in a new tab, so you can read the guidance in full and check for any updates.

The World Health Organization is independent of Sixpence Support UK. These links are provided for information and signposting. This page is general information and is not medical advice. If you are unwell or worried about an infection, contact NHS 111 or your GP, or call 999 in an emergency.