Latest Ebola News: David Beckham joins the fight against Ebola

By: Editorial Team | | Published: October 18, 2014 6:04 pm

David Beckham, former England footballer is keen to help Ebola victims. He put his step forward in this fight against Ebola by calling the world to help so as to ‘collectively halt’ the ‘ferocious’ Ebola outbreak. Mr Beckham wants to help people in Sierra Leone, one of the worst affected African nation by the disease that has a 70 percent death rate. (Read: Ebola facts frequently asked questions (FAQ)) Also Read - Ganesh Chaturthi 2020: 4 reasons an eco-friendly Ganesha is good for you

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‘Six years ago, I travelled to Sierra Leone with Unicef. I was inspired and honoured to have met so many amazing people and to see the beautiful country,’ the 39-year-old said in a video for Unicef, of which he is a goodwill ambassador. ‘While there, I was lucky enough to get a glimpse into the lives of children in remote villages and the challenges they faced in a country then devastated by civil war,’ he added. (Read: Ebola virus signs and symptoms you need to watch out for!) Also Read - New testing device said to detect Ebola in less than 30 minutes, say scientists

Calling Ebola an invisible enemy, he went on to say that the ferocious disease is spreading fast across West Africa. ‘The good news is that this disease can be avoided if you take the correct measures together we can collectively halt this disease in its tracks. Let’s start now,’ he added. Beckham also expressed sympathy for the victims of the disease. (Read: What is the Ebola incubation period?)

8 tips to prevent Ebola infection

For a deadly virus like Ebola, negligence is a golden opportunity to attack healthy individuals and cause Ebola virus disease (EVD). Once an outbreak has been declared, only effective preventive and precautionary measures will help prevent further spread of infection. 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. (Read: Has the Ebola virus really come to India?)

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. (Read: Ebola Facts: Top 7 myths busted)

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: 5 reasons the ebola virus should never come to India)

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. Read about more tips to prevent Ebola infection

With inputs from IANS

Image Source: Getty Images

Published : October 18, 2014 6:04 pm

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