The Democratic Republic of Congo (RDC) has recently declared a new outbreak of the Ebola virus, a development that has generated concerns throughout the African continent, including Nigeria.
Tribune Online reports that the country confirmed its 16th Ebola outbreak, with officials registered 28 confirmed or suspect cases and 15 deaths in the province of Kasai.
The index case was a 34 -year -old pregnant woman in Boulapé, who died tragically after showing ebola symptoms.
Ebola, discovered for the first time in 1976, is caused by the Zaire Ecolavirus. It extends to humans of wild animals, often bats or primates, before transmitting rapidly through human to human contact.
The virus spreads through direct contact with body fluids such as blood and vomiting, or through contaminated objects such as bedding and medical tools. Traditional burial practices that involve direct contact with the deceased can further accelerate their transmission.
The first symptoms of the disease resemble malaria and typhoid, starting with fever, intense fatigue, muscle pain, headache and throat pain. As it progresses, patients may experience vomiting, diarrhea, eruptions and organic failure. In severe cases, internal and external bleeding may occur.
In this article, Tribune Online analyzes five key prevention measures against the virus:
The virus is not only deadly but also highly contagious. Therefore, avoid touching the blood, vomiting, feces or other body fluids of anyone who is sick or died with ebola symptoms. If you suspect that someone has the virus, alerts health authorities immediately instead of trying home care.
Exercise rigorous hand hygiene
Wash your hands frequently with clean water and soap, or use a disinfectant based on alcohol. Pay special attention after touching possible sources of infection or after visiting hospitals and treatment centers.
Avoid wild meat and animals
This measure is crucial. The handling or consumption of meat of meat, especially bats, monkeys or other wildlife, can trigger the initial transmission of the virus. Therefore, it is advisable to stay away from these animals.
Use the appropriate protection equipment when taking care of the sick
If the care of the patients is inevitable, be sure to use full personal protection equipment (PPE): gloves, dresses, masks and eye protection. Follow strict protocols when putting and eliminating protective clothing to avoid accidental exposure.
Stay updated with official guidelines
Finally, keep informed with the directives of the health authorities and the World Health Organization. Monitor sprout alerts, adhere to travel restrictions or detection measures and learn secure burial practices in affected areas. Stay updated can significantly reduce your risk.
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