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Programs that attempt to control the occurrence and spread of Ebola, a rare and deadly disease caused by infection with one of the Ebola virus strains found in several African countries. Good outbreak control relies on a defined set of interventions including case management, surveillance and contact tracing, a good laboratory service, safe burials and social mobilization. Community engagement is key to successfully controlling outbreaks. Raising awareness of risk factors for Ebola infection and protective measures that individuals can take is an effective way to reduce human transmission. Health-care workers caring for patients with suspected or confirmed Ebola virus need to apply extra infection control measures to prevent contact with the patient’s blood and body fluids and contaminated surfaces or materials such as clothing and bedding. Safety measures include wearing face protection (a face shield or a medical mask and goggles), a clean, non-sterile long-sleeved gown, and gloves (sterile gloves for some procedures). Laboratory workers are also at risk. Samples taken from humans and animals for investigation of Ebola infection should be handled by trained staff and processed in suitably equipped laboratories.