Over the past week many of us have read headlines that stated two Americans have contracted the deadly Ebola virus! These headlines have quickly led to a lot of fear and confusion. Could we all here in the US be at risk of contracting Ebola? With the buzz about this outbreak growing I thought it best to address, explain, and clear up any unnecessary worries you may have about the recent Ebola outbreak impacting you. Here’s a breakdown of Ebola facts you should know:
- First things first – this recent Ebola outbreak hasn’t hit the United States. Though Americans were infected, they are Americans working with Ebola patients in Liberia. These doctors and missionaries are doing noble yet dangerous work, as the Ebola virus is extremely contagious – and unfortunately though they were taking all the possible and necessary precautious these healthcare workers were still infected.
- The outbreak that is spreading across West Africa is in fact the deadliest Ebola outbreak in history, which is why it’s getting so much buzz and press. It has already killed 670 people, and because it is so very contagious there are fears that those numbers will keep rising.
- Ebola is a deadly and highly contagious virus. Statistics have shown that it kills 80-90% of those who contract it. And it can be contracted by people who directly come into contact with the virus via blood and other bodily fluids OR even body tissue of those who are infected – whether they are alive or deceased. Animals that are infected can also pass the disease onto humans and it is also believed fruit bats carry the virus. The advent of air travel has made it possible for the virus to spread faster and farther, as evidenced recently when a Liberian lawyer with the virus flew to Lagos, dying shortly after arrival.
- Signs of the Ebola virus mirror those of a common cold or flu – sore throat, fever, vomiting, aches and diarrhea as well as red eyes and a skin rash. These common symptoms usually begin around eight to ten days after exposure.
- At the moment there is no known cure for the Ebola virus. Treatment is primarily supportive through IV fluid hydration, blood pressure support and pain management.
If anyone you know and love is traveling to an area where Ebola may be a health concern please share with them the facts about this disease! And if they feel ill or have any questions about if they may have been exposed to Ebola definitely encourage them to see a physician or go to the Emergency Room immediately!
Wishing you good health!
Dr. V