Public Information

General Ebola Facts:

• Ebola is a disease that initially causes non-specific symptoms like fever, chills, muscle ache, loss of strength and fatigue. As the disease progresses patients develop high fever, diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Ebola can only be transmitted through direct contact with blood or body fluids (urine, fecal material, sputum or spit) of an individual who is SICK with the disease: individuals without symptoms cannot transmit the disease.
• The best way to prevent exposure to Ebola is to avoid coming in contact with blood and body fluids. Clinicians protection is provided through standard blood and body fluid precautions which include:
  • Wear gloves and gown when caring for patients with active bleeding, vomiting, diarrhea or urinary incontinence. Do the same when cleaning/disinfecting the ambulance or equipment after a patient encounter.
  • To provent exposure from blood splash (copious bleeding) or sputum (when performing procedures that make patients cough) wear eye protection and a mask.
  • In addition, always wash your hands before and after every patient encounter using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.