Avoiding Ebola Infection - 4 Guidelines

Since the initial outbreak of the virus earlier this year, Ebola has quickly emerged as one of the world’s most dangerous diseases. What was once a handful of isolated cases how now turned into a global security threat that threatens the health of the entire population. In fact according to experts, an estimated 7500 West Africans are now infected with the Ebola virus, with a collection of other cases scattered across the globe. So what can be done to stop Ebola from spreading?

Read on for some expert advice on how to contain the deadly disease and minimise the risk of infection.

1. Don’t touch

Ebola is a highly contagious virus which is spread through direct contact with contaminated matter. This includes body fluids such as blood, saliva and vomit. It is critical that anybody coming into contact with an infected person doesn’t touch any of these fluids without adequate bodily protection. Medical staff and relatives of infected patients are the most at risk groups and are strongly advised to always wear rubber gloves and regularly disinfect any protective clothing that has come into direct contact with the disease.

Most medical professionals now sport protective Ebola suits which consist of a surgical cap, mask, goggles, respirator, surgical scrubs, overalls, apron, double gloves and rubber boots. These are sprayed with chlorine before being taken off to further ensure that any infected droplets are removed. 

2. Cover your eyes

While droplets landing on the skin can be immediately washed away, the eyes act as a direct portal for the spread of the Ebola virus. The mouth and nose are also highly at risk of infection, as are any areas of broken skin such as scratches, rashes, cuts and scrapes. This is why it’s so important to wear a protective mask and goggles at all times. Without them medical workers and family members risk contracting the deadly disease from something as small as a sneeze or cough.

3. Wash and disinfect

People infected with the Ebola virus experience an alarming amount of blood loss. This immediately infects clothing, bed linen and medical equipment. Laundry should be incinerated while any non-disposable equipment should be thoroughly disinfected. Even the smallest drop of infected fluid can pose as a risk so it pays to be meticulous when it comes to sterilisation. 

4. Use condoms

Those who have recovered from Ebola are generally given the all-clear however experts from the World Health Organization Ebola have suggested that the virus can remain present in semen for up to three months. It’s better to be safe than sorry and using a condom is the best way to ensure that the virus doesn’t spread.

While official precautionary measures are extremely stringent, the recent infection of a Dallas nurse proves that even the most robust of anti-Ebola contraction strategies can still have its flaws. Everyday Brits should not have to resort to these precautionary measures, however if Ebola continues to spread, they could become an integral part of public protection. Public Health England has stated that Ebola risk in the UK is minimal, which you can read about further in this article: Ebola Virus - Is the UK at Risk?