A1 Understand health issues page 12 Flashcards
When and where did the Ebola epidemic begin?
The Ebola epidemic began in late December 2013 in villages in Guinea, West Africa.
What were the initial symptoms of Ebola, and how quickly did it progress?
Initial symptoms included high fever, headaches, vomiting, and diarrhoea, which quickly progressed to bleeding from all orifices, with many victims dying within a week.
How was Ebola initially misdiagnosed, and what was thought to be the cause?
Ebola was initially thought to be cholera, leading to misdiagnosis and a lack of protective measures in hospitals.
How did the disease spread to the capital of Guinea?
The disease spread to the capital of Guinea after a relative of the first victim traveled there and was treated without any protective measures being taken.
When was Ebola confirmed as the cause of the outbreak, and by which laboratory?
Ebola was confirmed as the cause on March 22, 2014, by a laboratory at the Institute Pasteur in France.
How is Ebola transmitted?
Ebola is transmitted through bodily fluids of infected individuals, making close contact with patients, healthcare workers, or mortuary staff particularly risky.
What measures were taken to control the Ebola outbreak?
Measures included travel restrictions, issuing PPE to healthcare and mortuary staff, and education programs to inform the public about symptoms and prevention.
How many people were infected and killed during the Ebola outbreak according to the WHO?
The WHO reported over 28,000 infections and 11,000 deaths, although the true toll may be higher due to challenges in collecting accurate data in rural areas.
