By Dr. Yanira Cruz, President & CEO of NHCOA
Amidst recent news of the Hantavirus spread amongst the passengers of a cruise ship in the Atlantic ocean, you may have also seen news regarding another virus: Ebola. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), an outbreak of Ebola Virus is currently unfolding. As of May 16th, there were 8 confirmed cases of the virus, 246 suspected cases, and 80 suspected deaths. Additionally, there were two confirmed cases in Uganda, which neighbors the DRC, among two individuals had recently traveled from the DRC.
It’s understandable to feel anxious and fearful at the news of this outbreak. Whereas the Hantavirus remains in small in number of cases, and more or less isolated, this outbreak of Ebola is certainly more pressing and dangerous. According to the World Health Organization this outbreak “constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), but does not meet the criteria of pandemic emergency.”
At this time, no cases have been confirmed outside of the DRC or Uganda, with the two Uganda cases having been linked to the DRC. Only countries that share borders with DRC and Uganda have been advised by the World Health Organization to take urgent precautions.
Ebola disease is caused by a group of viruses, known as orthoebolaviruses, which are primarily found in sub-Saharan Africa. The strain present currently in the DRC is known as the Bundibugyo virus which causes Bundibugyo virus disease. Ebola diseases tend to show symptoms within a high variance of time, anywhere from 2 to 21 days. The symptoms tend to consist of loss of appetite, unexplained bleeding, and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Transmission of the Ebola virus is made through contact with the bodily fluids of an infected individual, or direct contact with an infected individual. Thus, prevention efforts need only be taken if the virus is confirmed to have reached your country or region, as prevention consists simply of avoiding contact with infected individuals or their fluids.
At this time it is highly unlikely for individuals outside of the DRC, Uganda, or their neighboring countries, to come into contact with the Ebola virus. There is currently no cause for alarm within the United States.
For more information, stay up to date with the World Health Organization newsroom. The National Hispanic Council on Aging (NHCOA) Resource Center is available to help you navigate both current and future public health crises, by phone call or WhatsApp, at (202) 658 – 8664. The NHCOA Resource Center is a multilingual hub that educates and empowers community members and constituents with accurate information and helpful resources.
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