Ebola is caused by a virus (orthoebolavirus) and is mainly found in sub-Saharan Africa Ebola Disease Basics | Ebola | CDC. This virus was first discovered in 1976. African fruit bats may be the source of the virus and the way it is spread to humans and other animals. One of the main symptoms of Ebola virus is unexplained bleeding; however, some individuals have flu-like symptoms only and improve within a week after symptoms first appear. High levels of death (up to 90%) can occur. There is little risk of contracting this virus unless you travel to areas where an outbreak is occurring. You can find more information here: