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Following the alarm sparked in the US by the fist two cases of Ebola, US President Barack Obama delivered a calming message to Americans. He said that the nation is 'prepared' to ward off the deadly epidemic outbreak of the Ebola virus.' 'There is no country better prepared to confront the challenge posed by the Ebola than the US. Even a single case here in the country is like too many, we are not facing an outbreak of the disease,' said Obama in his message. (Read: Obama gets Ron Klain on-board for fight against Ebola in states)
The president said that 'this is a serious disease, but we cannot give in to hysteria or fear' because 'Ebola is actually a difficult disease to catch.'He also stood up for health authorities' ability to respond and learn from the mistakes made at the Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas where two nurses were infected who had been caring for Liberian patient Thomas Eric Duncan, who died of the disease earlier this month. (Read: Ebola Facts: Top 7 myths busted)
'We know how to fight this disease. We know the protocols. And we know that when they're followed, they work. So far, five Americans who got infected with Ebola in West Africa have been brought back to the US and all five have been treated safely, without infecting healthcare workers,'he said. (Read: 8 tips to prevent Ebola infection)
Ebola facts frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The Ebola virus outbreak has threatened West Africa with the death toll increasing at an alarming rate every day. The lack of proper awareness about the Ebola infection adds to the deadly potential of the virus, increasing the risk of being infected with Ebola. 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. (Read: Ebola virus causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and prevention)
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: 10 reasons that make the Ebola virus deadly for humans)
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of Ebola virus usually appear between 2 to 21 days after being infected with the virus. The early symptoms include high fever (greater than 38.6 C), headache, drop in blood pressure and stomach pain. Whereas late signs of Ebola infections which indicate medical emergency are sore throat, jaundice, skin rashes, bleeding and loss of appetite. (Read: 9 warning symptoms of Ebola that you should know)
Who is at highest risk of getting the disease?
Any individuals who are in close contact with the person infected with the Ebola virus are at high risk of getting the disease. Healthcare providers (doctors, nurses and ward boys) who are taking care of the patients as well as family members and friends who are in close contact with the infected person are at higher risk of acquiring the infection. Read about more Ebola facts frequently asked questions (FAQ)
With inputs from IANS
Source: Getty Images
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