Written By: Shraddha Rupavate | Published : October 20, 2014 5:27 PM IST
Weeks after the formal announcement regarding the end of Ebola outbreak in Nigeria, the World Health Organisation (WHO) now officially declares Nigeria as an Ebola free country. There were 20 confirmed Ebola cases in Nigeria, out of which eight people died, as reported by the WHO. The Nigerian government earlier mentioned that seven people died and in total 19 were infected.
Ebola virus has an incubation period of 21 days, which passed without record of any new or suspected cases. Officially, there has been no new Ebola case in Nigeria since August 31. The US agency earlier credited Nigerian authorities to take quick actions in isolating the infected and setting up an incident management centre for a well coordinated Ebola response. (Read: What is the Ebola virus disease survival rate?)
According to the official statement released by WHO, Nigeria sets an example of a spectacular success story that strengthens our belief that Ebola can be contained. 'The story of how Nigeria ended what many believed to be potentially the most explosive Ebola outbreak imaginable is worth telling in detail,' says the statement. Several developing countries that are now panicking about the outbreak can learn from Nigeria and improve their preparedness plans. Other developed countries, on the other hand, can learn something as well. Read: What is the Ebola incubation period?)
Earlier this year, the WHO also applauded Nigeria for successful eradication of guinea-worm disease, which infected more than 650 000 people every year. (Read: 10 reasons that make the Ebola virus deadly for humans)
Here are some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) with answers about the deadly Ebola disease -
How is the Ebola virus disease caused?
The Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a contagious disease caused by infection with one of the four strains of the Ebola virus. The Ebola virus belongs to the family of Filoviridae and the viral strains with potential for infection in humans are Zaire, Bundibugyo, Tai Forest and Sudan virus.
How does it spread?
The Ebola virus spreads through direct contact with the body fluids (semen, sweat, saliva and blood), infected objects (needles) and close skin contact with an infected person. It can also be transmitted through close contact with infected animals (handling the meat) and consumption of uncooked meat. Read more about Ebola facts frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Image source: Getty images
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