Global Management of Ebola

Infectious disease experts in many countries agree that the Ebola epidemic will require another six months to control it.

The World Health Organization has declared the outbreaks of Ebola virus disease a worldwide public health emergency. Not only is there the absence of an effective available treatment or immunization, but also the tracking of case numbers and deaths from the illness is difficult to follow. Specifically, the reports of cases in some regions of Africa may not be reliable [1].

Case reports may not be correct in regions where transmission rates are quite high. The actual number of patients with this medical condition may be two to four times what the reports show. In any event, these geographic areas with high rates of transmission will require more attention than those with low occurrences of the infection [1].

International Response Necessary

The response to Ebola virus disease requires an international involvement. The management and public health interventions will vary with the individual country. Capital cities will especially demand attention [1].

Fear and collapse of the infrastructure in countries dramatically contribute to this public health issue. In such situations, there is social, economic, and political instability which presents barriers to diagnosis and management of the disease. There is lack of food, protection, water, sanitation, and hygiene for the community. Children who have acquired the infection may become orphans when their family members reject them [1].

Clinical Practice Standards

As the outbreak continues, workers must prepare for future cases of Ebola virus disease. Moreover, there are occurrences in people who live near the borders of some countries, and contact tracing and monitoring are necessary to keep disease spread under control [1].

As health care centers in these countries assume responsibility for the care of these patients, the facilities have to meet certain standards. For example, personal protective equipment must be available for every employee who participates in their management. Also, clinical laboratories have to meet standards in order to gain recognition from the World Health Organization [1].

Conclusion

Ebola virus disease has presented a perplexing situation across the globe, and countries must work together in order to resolve it.

References

1. World Health Organization. (2014). Ebola response roadmap. Retrieved September 16, 2014.

2. The photo indicates the early symptoms of Ebola virus disease and is reprinted with permission from the Centers for Disease Control.

Disclaimer

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact their physician for advice.

Updated: 09/17/2014, Michael_Koger

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