Deadly Ebola Outbreak
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WEST AFRICA — Drastic measures are being taken to stop the world’s deadliest outbreak of Ebola in Africa. The Liberian president has closed most of the country’s borders. Two American doctors working to help victims has fallen ill with the virus. Many West Tennesseans go on mission trips around the world to offer aid. The World Health Organization is calling the Ebola outbreak in Africa the deadliest ever recorded. So far, more than 600 people have died with thousand infected including two American doctors working as missionaries to fight the disease. “Despite all the challenges that you can face when you go to these areas its still good to help other people.” Dr. Sandra Dee, Intervention Cardiologist at the Jackson Clinic said. Dr. Sandra Dee, Cardiologist with the Jackson Clinic, lends her expertise around the world as a missionary and says doctors in her position understand the risks and do their best to be prepared. “Essentially if you’re going out to mission trips you know either as a healthcare worker or as if really just for purposes you should be prepared and know what is endemic in that particular area.” Dee said. Ebola is spread by bodily fluids, animals and unsanitary conditions. Symptoms include extreme fever and body ache along with excessive bleeding from all parts of the body. Medical personnel working in infected areas wear special suits for protection. Despite their best efforts to curb the spread patients like Silvia Jalloh are still getting infected. “We came here to be tested, it is the only way the virus will spread so we have to do the test to know who is carrying the virus. So pass the test, do the test. Before people pass it on between a person who is sick, that you know that is sick.” Jalloh, Patient infected with Ebola said. Dr. Dee has advice for those wanting to help in the fight. “Read up about it. Educate yourself about where you’re going what the endemic is there and get vaccinated.” Dee says. Ninety percent of people infected with Ebola will die if they don’t get immediate medical attention. That drops to 60 percent if patients are able to get to a doctor in time. Luckily, no cases have been found here in the United States, but officials continue to tighten the grip in Africa to keep from further spread. In addition to closing most border crossings, the Liberian president has also placed restrictions on public gatherings and ordered hotels, restaurants and other entertainment venues to play a 5 minute video on Ebola safety.
