Editorial Team
... Read More
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookie Policy.
Written By: Editorial Team | Published : October 20, 2014 10:22 AM IST
The UN and the governments of the countries at the forefront of efforts to turn back the unfolding Ebola virus disease outbreak in West Africa have agreed to ensure that the UN system adopts a coordinated approach to global support being mobilised for national-level crisis response plans. Wrapping up a four-day meeting in Accra, Ghana, on strengthening the international community's support to efforts by Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone to tackle the Ebola crisis, top-level officials from the UN system and partner organisations reaffirmed the need to move rapidly and in a coordinated, precise manner to defeat the disease. (Read: Ebola facts frequently asked questions (FAQ))
According to a press release from the Ghana-based UN Mission for Ebola Emergency Response (UNMEER), Saturday's meeting produced an operational framework to ensure the wider UN system adopted a unified and coordinated approach to the international support being provided to national response plans. This comes as the UN has shifted into high gear to support the efforts of hard-hit countries in tackling the outbreak on all fronts, from food aid to delivery of building supplies, and providing healing and training for survivors. (Read: What is the Ebola incubation period?)
The meeting in Accra was attended by Chef de Cabinet of the UN secretary-general Susana Malcorra, Director General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Margaret Chan and the Executive Director of the World Food Programme Etharin Cousin. Also present were the Special Envoy of the secretary-general on Ebola, David Nabarro, and the UNMEER Chief, Anthony Banbury. Among other participants were senior officials from UN agencies, funds and programmes, as well as from international partners such as the World Bank, the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and the Britain's Department for International Development. (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
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter.
