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Written By: Editorial Team | Published : October 18, 2014 2:12 PM IST
As per the Government statement released on Friday, the German government has pledged to donate another 84.7 million euros (about $108.1 million) for fight against the Ebola epidemic. It brings the total amount of aid promised by Germany for battling the disease to over 100 million euros.
The additional funds will be used to support efforts of the German government as well as non-governmental and international organisations, Xinhua reported citing the statement. Government spokeswoman Christiane Wirtz stressed Friday that it was necessary to reconstruct health systems in the long term and strengthen them in countries and regions affected by the virus. (Read: Ebola facts frequently asked questions (FAQ))
This will be one key area of Germany's development policy in the coming years, she said. Germany has sent transport planes to West Africa to help with the logistics of containing outbreak of Ebola and is supporting the construction of field hospitals. Around 5,000 German soldiers have volunteered for the Ebola Task Force to West Africa after an appeal by German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen. (Read: Ebola virus signs and symptoms you need to watch out for!)
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
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