Ebola Virus Disease Fact Sheet

What is Ebola?

The Ebola Virus Disease is a severe haemorrhagic fever caused by the Ebola virus. In March 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed outbreaks of Ebola in the West African countries of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

On August 8th, 2014, WHO Director-General Margaret Chan declared this epidemic a Public Health Emergency of international concern.

As of October 12th, 2014, there has been limited spread of Ebola to Nigeria, Senegal, Spain and the United States of America (USA). 40% to 60% of infected persons have died in this Ebola outbreak.

How Does Ebola Spread? Ebola spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of persons who are sick or have died from the disease. It can also spread by touching or handling objects, e.g. needles, clothes or bedding, soiled with bodily fluids from a sick person. Only persons sick with Ebola and showing symptoms can spread the disease. There are no cases of Ebola in Trinidad and Tobago at this time. However, there is a risk of Ebola spreading to other countries through international travel.

What Are The Symptoms Of Ebola? Severe Fever Intense Weakness Severe Muscle Pain Severe Headaches and Sore Throat Profuse Vomiting and Diarrhoea Rash Internal and External Bleeding

When will Symptoms Begin?
After you are infected with the Ebola virus, it may take up to 21 days before symptoms begin. A blood test only becomes positive after three (3) days of symptoms.

What Can You Do To Reduce The Risk Of Getting Ebola?
Avoid non-essential travel to Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone where Ebola is widespread.

If you must travel to a country with Ebola:

• Avoid all close contact with sick persons and corpses.
• Do not handle items that may have come into contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids.
• Wash hands often or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Information courtesy, the Ministry of Health