Here's a breakdown of the ending:
* The Ebola outbreak in Reston, Virginia, is contained: The Army's team, led by Nancy Jaax, successfully eradicates the virus from the monkey holding facility and prevents it from spreading to the human population. This was a major victory, as the Reston strain of Ebola was considered highly contagious and deadly.
* The threat of Ebola remains: While the Reston outbreak is resolved, the book ends with a reminder that Ebola is still a real and present danger. The author emphasizes the importance of ongoing vigilance and research to develop effective treatments and vaccines.
* The importance of preparedness: The book highlights the crucial role of public health agencies and scientific teams in responding to emerging infectious diseases. It emphasizes the need for coordinated efforts, communication, and research to combat these threats.
Ultimately, *The Hot Zone* leaves the reader with a mixed sense of relief and apprehension. While the immediate threat of the Reston Ebola outbreak was averted, the possibility of future outbreaks remains, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of humanity to deadly pathogens.