Emergence and Re-emergence of 2014 Ebola outbreak in Sub- Sahara Africa: ‘Challenges and lessons learned’ from Nigerian epidemic outbreak
Journal Title: Scholars Journal of Applied Medical Sciences - Year 2015, Vol 3, Issue 8
Abstract
The 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa was a huge and horrifying public health and socio-economic challenges that prompted the World Health Organisation to declare it as a severe public health emergency that requires urgent and collaborative attention to handle. It was assumed and seen as a global health risk given the rapid and modern transportation system that makes the entire world a global village. The infection seems to set in after an incubation period of about 14 days. However, a flue like a syndrome can develop to full blown hemorrhagic fever, given rise to multi-targeted organ and cell failure that will promote death in the end respectively. The control of Ebola in the affected zone in Africa is probably suffering a setback due to lack of vaccine and non-virus-specific treatment options. Also, non-sustainable and inadequate health facilities, lack of personal hygiene, poor sanitation strategy, misconception and cultural practice are some of the factors that have promoted the outbreak in the communities. Early detection of ribonucleic acid (RNA) in body fluids with ELISA and the use of PCR would help for prompt diagnosis and identification. There is no specific treatment lay down procedure, but treatment could entail massive and aggressive supportive care intervention strategy, early diagnosis and rehydration. Besides, prompt contact tracing, spontaneous surveillance approach, quarantine and efficient well-detailed isolation strategy that is timely remains critical for efficient control of the scourge (Ebola). The need to continue to educate the general masses on the epidemiology, control and preventive measures of the virus will naturally help to reduce the spread in our communities. Thus, Nigeria was able to contain the outbreak due to the mass mobilisation of her citizens through radio, television jingle, social media and well-coordinated approach. This was backed up by the prompt financial commitment of the government of President Good luck Ebele Jonathan that showed strong and massive political will to tackle and kick out the scourge in our vicinity (Nigeria). Keywords: Haemorrhagic fever, Ebola, Public health, Sub-Sahara Africa, Outbreak, Nigeria outbreak
Authors and Affiliations
Azuonwu O, Chukwu E. C
Keywords
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