The first U.S. case of Ebola in Dallas, Texas is highly unfortunate. The more informed we can be the better. Some fast facts:
– Ebola is NOT an airborne virus.
– People contract Ebola through contact with bodily fluids or blood of an infected person.
– Early symptoms of Ebola include fever, headache, body aches, cough, stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea. Other illnesses, such as influenza or malaria, are often ruled out before Ebola testing.
– Chlorine disinfection, heat, direct sunlight, soaps and detergents can kill the Ebola virus.
– Ebola is only considered “moderately” contagious. Most people who have become infected with Ebola lived with or cared for an ill patient.
– In the rare event that a person infected with the Ebola virus was unknowingly transported by air, the WHO advises that the risks to other passengers are low because of the close contact with body fluids required for infection.
– Medications to treat the virus are experimental. Right now, the best treatment for Ebola is supportive care, including fluids, oxygen, rest and keeping blood pressure steady.
Read More About Ebola, Including New Dallas Case
Here are three more informative links to help you learn more about Ebola, including prevention, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and care facilities.
World Health Organization, Ebola Fast Facts
New York Times, What You Need To Know About Ebola
