Medical News

As part of effort to curb the spread of Ebola Virus Diseases   which has claimed two (2) lives to about 200 peoplequarantined in Lagos and Enugu, Nigeria.The management organised an awareness campaign on EVD for members of staff on 7^th August 2014. The presentation was made by Dr. Elegbede a Consultant in Community Health Department, he described the virus as follows:

What is Ebola Virus Disease?

Ebola Virus Disease (formerly known as Ebola haemorrhagic fever) is a severe, often fatal illness, with a death rate of up to 90%. The illness affects humans and non-human primates (monkeys, gorillas, and chimpanzees)

The origin of the virus is unknown but fruit bats (Pteropodidae) are considered the likely host of the Ebola virus, based on available evidence.

How do people become infected with the virus?

• Through close contact with blood, secretions, and other bodily fluids of infected animals/humans.
• Infection can also occur if broken skin or mucous membranes of a healthy person come into contact with environments that have become contaminated with an Ebola patient’s infectious fluids such as soiled clothing, bed linen, or used needles.

What Are the Symptoms of Ebola Fever?

• Fever(High grade)
• Headache
• Sore Throat
• Joint and muscle soreness
• Weakness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Redness in the eyes
• Swelling of the genitals
• Internal and external bleeding (some patients may have blood coming from their eyes, nose, mouth, ears, or rectum)
• A bleeding rash over the entire body

NOTE: The incubation period is often 2 to 21 days.

How can the transmission of Ebola virus be prevented?

• Avoid areas of known outbreaks….
• Wash your hands frequently….
• Avoid bush meat….
• Avoid contact with infected people….
• Follow infection-control procedures….
• Don’t handle dead animal and corpse….
• Avoid hand shake….

What are the Vaccine and treatment?

• No licensed vaccine for EVD is available.
• Several vaccines are being tested, but none are available for clinical use.
• No specific treatment is available.
• New drug therapies are being evaluated.

However, the CMD Dr. L.M Ayodele encouraged members of staff not to panic because the Federal Government is taking necessary measures to curtail the spread of the disease