Written By: Shraddha Rupavate | Published : September 18, 2014 12:43 PM IST
Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has yet again confirmed that there has been no suspected or positive case of Ebola, as the intense tracking and surveillance to prevent the disease spread continues at international airports in the country.
Although there were speculations about the Indian passenger travelling in the same flight (from Monrovia to Lagos) as the foreign national tested positive with Ebola to get infected, it was confirmed that the Indian has been tracked and is fit and healthy. 'We are happy to share that the person is healthy, fit and fine,' said Minister Harsh Vardhan. He also expressed that public response to the awareness campaign about Ebola is satisfactory, as reported by the Hindu.
According to a statement the helpline numbers for Ebola are operational. Most callers seek details about symptoms and preventive measures for Ebola. 'The reaction is quite mature and people have a good understanding of the collective responsibility in times like this,' noted Dr. Harsh Vardhan in the statement.
The government still advises Indians to prevent non-essential travel to the four West African countries Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Nigeria, while passengers coming from the affected areas will be continuously tracked.
Here are some tips to prevent Ebola virus
Educate yourself about Ebola: Knowing the symptoms, modes of transmission and preventive measures is the first step to prevent the spread of the disease. This information is especially important for those who are travelling to and from affected areas in West Africa. (Read: 10 reasons that make the Ebola virus deadly for humans)
Treat injuries: Open wounds and injuries can give the virus an opportunity to enter the body. Therefore, minor cuts and bleeding injuries should be kept covered and be treated at once.
Avoid crowded places: Direct contactis an easier way of transfer of virus. So, the sick should be isolated from healthy individuals to prevent spread of the disease.
Use protective gear: For healthcare workers and medical staff, it is absolutely mandatory to use protective gear including gloves and special masks and a body suit to prevent exposure to the virus. Even healthy individuals living in affected West African countries should use gloves and mask to prevent spread of the disease. Read more about 8 tips to prevent Ebola infection.
Image source: Getty images
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