What is EBOLA?

These days’ whole world talks about EBOLA. Actually, what is this EBOLA? EBOLA is a deadly disease caused by the EBOLA virus. EBOLA was initially reported from Sudan and Congo in 1976. Around 900 people have been died in West Africa from 1976 due to EBOLA. Because of that in August 08th 2014, World Health Organization declared this as an “International Health Emergency”.

For Sri Lanka EBOLA risk is very low since we are very far away from those African countries. But, because of tourism and international trade this virus can spread and henceforth, it is better to be aware regarding this and take precautions.

EBOLA caused due to a virus
Causes a severe illness with bleeding
Up to 90% cases are fatal
No vaccine or treatment are available
Many people can quickly become infected

How does it spread?

From Sick People

EBOLA virus can very easily and quickly spread from one person to another. Hence, people in direct contact with sick people are at a high risk.

From dead bodies

Dead bodies also can spread this virus. Therefore, avoid touching or washing dead bodies.

EBOLA symptoms

Early Symptoms

EBOLA symptoms can be visible within two days after infection. Followings are the early EBOLA symptoms.

Fever
Tiredness
Muscle pain
Headache
Nausea

Later symptoms

Vomiting (May contain blood)
Diarrhea - (May contain blood)
Couch (May contain blood)
Bleeding (From nose & mouth)
Along with decreased functioning of the liver and kidneys

How to prevent EBOLA?

Keep away from EBOLA infected people
Keep away from the EBOLA infected dead bodies
Don’t touch EBOLA infected people or their body fluids (Blood, Faeces or diarrhea, Vomit, Urine)
Wash hands often using soap

What to do if you get sick?

If you get EBOLA symptoms best thing is to go to the nearest hospital and follow their instructions. Until you go to a hospital keep away from other people so that they will not get infected. Be extra careful about your vomit and diarrhea.

You have to be extra careful, because most people with EBOLA die.