HEALTH TODAY
The Ebola Scourge…
The nation is currently under the shacks of the killer virus – Ebola. The Ebola virus is not airborne, so it cannot be caught like flu.
- The fatality rate can reach 90% - but the current outbreak has mortality rate of about 55%,
- It has an incubation period of 2 – 21 days,
- There is no proven vaccine or cure,
- Supportive care such as rehydrating patients who have diarrhea and vomiting can help recovery
- Fruit bats, a delicacy for some West Africans, are considered to be virus’s natural host.
What are the symptoms of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD)
- High fever, bleeding and central nervous system damage.
- Aches, pains in the joints, weakness.


Preventive Measures:
1. Don’t panic – spreading rumors increases fear. Do not be scared of health workers, about half of the people infected in the current outbreak have died.
2. No bush meat – do not engage in hunting or touching any animal such as bats, monkeys and chimps.
3. Avoid dead bodies – if you suspect someone has died from Ebola do not touch their body, even as part of the burial ceremony as you could still get the virus from a dead body.
4. Wash your hands regularly with water and soap. Most preferably an antiseptic soap.
5. We recommend the use of hand sanitizers as most people would not have water and soap with them always.

A new research study released on Monday 8th of September by Britain’s University of Oxford has revealed that 2.1 million Nigerians are at risk of contracting the Ebola virus disease.
The best way to prevent the spread of this disease is by maintaining a high personal hygiene, ensure your family closet is checked and proper hygiene is practiced. Contact your local clinic in the case of any suspicion. Or dial the Ebola help line – 0800326524357