Ebola declared health emergencyImage Credit source: Getty Images
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a public health emergency regarding the Ebola virus spreading rapidly in African countries. After this, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has issued instructions to its state and local branches across the country to remain alert. In the letter issued by the IMA Headquarters, it has been said that so far more than 336 suspected cases and 87 deaths have been reported. This infection is currently said to be limited to Congo and neighboring country Uganda.
IMA has said in the alert sent to the doctors that this time there is an outbreak of Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which no recognized vaccine or special treatment is available yet.
Also, due to the movement of people, identification and contact tracing of the infected is becoming difficult. According to doctors, the mortality rate of Ebola is very high and testing facilities are also limited in many areas.
How does Ebola spread?
According to IMA, Ebola spreads through contact with an infected person’s blood, body fluids, vomit or infected items. Unsafe funeral procedures can also be a major cause of infection. However, it has also been made clear in the letter that Ebola does not spread through air under normal circumstances and it is not a virus that spreads infection as fast as Covid-19.
What are the early symptoms?
The initial symptoms of Ebola include high fever, weakness, headache, muscle pain and sore throat. IMA has appealed to all doctors and health workers to remain alert, keep an eye on suspected cases and strictly follow the rules of infection control.
These symptoms may appear after infection
vomiting
Diarrhea
bleeding from the body
Shock to the body and failure of many organs
How to prevent the spread of infection
Early identification of the disease and isolation of the patient
maintain good hand hygiene
Safe disposal of medical waste
Following all the rules to prevent infection
clean hands, safe life
IMA has appealed to the people to be alert and follow health safety rules to prevent infection.
