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Amidst the World Health Organization's (WHO) continuous updates on the Ebola outbreak in several African countries, Vietnam's health sector is strengthening surveillance and response measures to prevent the risk of the disease entering the country.
According to experts at Bach Mai Hospital, Vietnam has not yet recorded any cases of Ebola. However, the increase in international travel and interaction means that the risk of imported cases remains.
It is worth noting that the initial symptoms of Ebola, such as fever, headache, fatigue, vomiting, or diarrhea, are easily confused with many other common illnesses such as dengue fever, influenza, or gastrointestinal infections.
According to Dr. Doan Thu Tra, Acting Director of the Bach Mai Institute of Tropical Medicine, Ebola has an incubation period of 2-21 days. The virus is not contagious when the patient has not yet shown symptoms, but it can be transmitted through blood and bodily fluids once the disease has started.
Experts emphasize that gathering epidemiological information within the 21 days prior to the onset of illness is particularly important. Simply asking about travel history or contact with an affected area in the first few minutes of admission can help detect suspected cases early.
In healthcare facilities, the recommended "2-5-30" response principle includes: 2 minutes for symptom and epidemiological information gathering, 5 minutes for temporary isolation, and the first 30 minutes for activating the infection control and response system and reporting as required. This is considered the "golden time" to limit the risk of transmission right from the hospital entrance.
Dr. Truong Anh Thu, Head of the Infection Control Department, stated that all suspected Ebola cases must adhere to the "Detect - Isolate - Report" principle. Patients need to be separated from crowded areas, healthcare workers must use full personal protective equipment, and infection control measures must be implemented immediately.
Experts affirm that Ebola is an extremely dangerous infectious disease, but it is entirely controllable if detected early, isolated promptly, and infection control procedures are strictly followed. People should proactively and truthfully report their travel history and potential contacts when visiting healthcare facilities to help protect themselves and the community.
Source: https://vtv.vn/2-phut-vang-ngan-chan-nguy-co-lay-nhiem-ebola-100260601213338499.htm
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