WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

Ebola epidemic in the US? Unlikely.

There is no denying that Ebola is a deadly disease. The most recent outbreak in West Africa has been by far the largest, infecting 7470 people and killing 3431. The loss of life is tragic. And the spread of Ebola is scary.

There are characteristics of Ebola that make it deadly:

  • The incubation period is 21 days.
  • Half the people who have contracted Ebola have died.

But, there are also other characteristics of Ebola that work in our favor:

  • It is contagious only when symptoms are present.
  • It is only spread through direct contact with bodily fluids – blood, vomit, or diarrhea.
  • Those who survive Ebola have an immunity.

 In spite of one case developing in the United States, experts say the chance of a widespread outbreak here is not probable. Because although Ebola is deadly, if contained properly, it does not spread easily. And here in the US we have the infrastructure, equipment and medical personnel to properly quarantine those who could be ill and treat the cases that arise. And, hospitals across the country have been preparing to deal with patients. Here in Washington, medical facilities are at the ready.

If you have not traveled to West Africa recently or had direct contact with someone who did and was ill, then it is highly unlikely that you will contract Ebola. The CDC has put together a good summary of what you need to know to protect yourself.