Latest Ebola News: Ebola kills 268 in Liberia

Assistant Health Minister for Preventive Services Tolbert Nyenswah confirmed Tuesday that Ebola outbreak in Liberia has killed 268 people including 37 healthcare workers. It was reported that nurses and healthcare staff have abandoned most health facilities in the country, with a dead body is found on the streets of the capital city of Monrovia almost everyday.

Ebola, which spreads through mucous and other body fluid or secretions such as stool, urine, saliva and semen of infected people, is believed to be very difficult to control. Altogether 1,603 infections and 887 deaths have been recorded in the Ebola hit countries of Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said Monday.

What is ebola virus?

The Ebola virus disease (EVD), formerly known as Ebola hemorrhagic fever is a severe condition caused by a virus from the Filoviridae family. Known to be a condition that is transmitted from animals to humans, this virus spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person or animal.

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following precautionary measures for travelers.

• In any case, avoid handling items that you suspect have been contaminated, especially blood or body fluids.
• Avoid contact with other people and avoid visiting hospitals where treatment for Ebola is being given.
• Use masks and other protective stuff like gloves and eye protection if needed.
• Be careful about your health for at least 21 days after suspected exposure to the virus. If you develop any symptoms within this period, visit a specialist. Avoid traveling and direct contact with others before your visit to the doctor and confirm the cause of your symptoms. Read more about Ebola virus causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and prevention

With inputs from IANS

Photo source: Getty images

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