Tips on how to protect yourself from the deadly Ebola virus

The Federal Government on Tuesday confirmed the first case of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Ebola is a disease that spreads through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person or animal, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).

Following the confirmation, below are facts on transmission/causes, symptoms, and how to protect yourself and loved ones.

How Does It Spread?

Ebola can be spread through:

Direct contact with blood, sweat, saliva, vomit, or other bodily fluids of an infected, symptomatic person

Touching contaminated surfaces such as clothing, bedding, or other materials contaminated with fluids from an infected individual

Consuming infected wild animals, handling deceased bodies without safety gear.

Know The Symptoms

Symptoms typically appear two to 21 days after exposure. The symptoms include:

Fever

Vomitting

Headache

Diarrhea

Weakness/Fatigue

Bleeding

Muscle pain

Sore throat

How To Protect Yourself

Wash hands regularly with clean running water and soap, or use alcohol-based sanitiser.

Avoid contact with dead bodies and wild animals.

Ensure all meat products are handled hygienically and thoroughly cooked.

Do not touch bodily fluids of sick individuals or handle deceased bodies without professional health protocols.

Health workers should adhere strictly to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) standards.

Myth Vs Facts

Let’s set the record straight!

Myth: Ebola spreads via casual contact (handshake, hugging).

Fact: Ebola does not spread through casual contact. It requires direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person.

Myth: Ebola spreads through food and water.

Fact: Ebola does not spread through food and water, but all foods should be thoroughly cooked. Drink clean water always.

Myth: Ebola spreads through the air.

Fact: Ebola is not an airborne virus. Transmission strictly requires direct physical contact with bodily fluids or contaminated objects from a person showing active symptoms.

Myth: Healthcare facilities are not safe during outbreaks.

Fact: Healthcare facilities are strengthening infection prevention and control measures, including triage systems, hand hygiene, use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and isolation procedures to protect patients and healthcare workers.

Stay informed and avoid panic. Spreading unverified rumours causes unnecessary fear and hampers response efforts. Always rely on official health updates.