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Written By: Editorial Team | Published : October 28, 2014 12:52 PM IST
A US nurse, whose quarantine in New Jersey sparked a furious backlash after she returned from treating Ebola patients in West Africa, was discharged today, officials said. Kaci Hickox complained bitterly about being placed under mandatory quarantine Friday, claiming she was made to feel like a criminal after being isolated in a tent without a shower or flush toilet.
Republican New Jersey Governor Chris Christie announced that the nurse was being released, a day after New York reversed strict new quarantine orders under pressure from the Obama administration. A spokeswoman for University Hospital in Newark, where Hickox was held in a tent outside the main building and made to wear paper scrubs, confirmed that she left shortly after 1:00 pm. (Read: Ebola facts frequently asked questions (FAQ))
White House spokesman Josh Earnest today criticised her confinement and praised Hickox for her bravery in travelling to West Africa in a bid to treat patients suffering from the virus. 'Her service and commitment to this cause is something that should be honored and respected, and I don't think we do that by making her live in a tent for two or three days,' he said today. (Read : How the Ebola virus spreads in humans)
(Read: What is the Ebola virus disease survival rate?)
Here are some expert tips that can help you prevent the disease.
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.
Maintain sanitary conditions: Basic hygiene plays a very important role in preventing Ebola. The exact way by which the virus enters the body is still debatable but skin and eyes are suggested routes for viral entry. However, food and water may also serve as source of entry. So, simple acts like washing hands before eating and disinfecting surfaces and covering the mouth can help prevent the spread of the virus, especially in areas surrounding the areas of outbreak.
Avoid contact with blood and body fluids: Ebola virus spreads through all body fluids including blood, semen, saliva, sweat, urine, fecal matter and vomit of infected individuals. Healthcare workers and medical staff who are more likely to come in contact with infected body fluids, infected needles and first aid, should handle them with protective gear. Read more about 8 tips to prevent Ebola infection
With inputs from PTI
Photo source: Getty images
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