Ebola in US: Has the Ebola patient transmitted the virus to school kids?

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The first Ebola patient in Texas, US, who is currently receiving treatment in Texas hospital, reportedly came in contact with young school children, confirmed governor Rick Perry. According to reports, when the patient visited the hospital on September 26 for diagnosis, he was sent home due to some miscommunication. After leaving the hospital he came in contact with school kids who have been identified and monitored for signs of disease. He was isolated on September 28.

‘Today we learned that some school-aged children have been identified as having had contact with the patient and are now being monitored at home for any signs of the disease,’ Perry said at a news conference. ‘I know that parents are being extremely concerned about that development,’ he added. ‘These children have been identified and they are being monitored and the disease cannot be transmitted before having any symptoms.’  Health officials are investigating how many people may have come in close contact with the patient, who travelled from Liberia to Texas to visit family.

Here are some expert tips that can help you prevent the disease.

Educate yourself about Ebola: Knowing the symptoms, modes of transmission and preventive measures is the first step to prevent the spread of the disease. This information is especially important for those who are travelling to and from affected areas in West Africa.   (Read: Has the Ebola virus really come to India?)

Maintain sanitary conditions: Basic hygiene plays a very important role in preventing Ebola. The exact way by which the virus enters the body is still debatable but skin and eyes are suggested routes for viral entry. However, food and water may also serve as source of entry. So, simple acts like washing hands before eating and disinfecting surfaces and covering the mouth can help prevent the spread of the virus, especially in areas surrounding the areas of outbreak.   (Read: Ebola Facts: Top 7 myths busted)

Avoid contact with blood and body fluids:  Ebola virus spreads through all body fluids including blood, semen, saliva, sweat, urine, fecal matter and vomit of infected individuals. Healthcare workers and medical staff who are more likely to come in contact with infected body fluids, infected needles and first aid, should handle them with protective gear. 8 tips to prevent Ebola infection

With inputs from PTI

Photo source: Getty images

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Ebola in US: Has the Ebola patient transmitted the virus to school kids?