The Cabinet during its meeting acknowledged the Ebola situation and preparations for coping with infections by the Ministry of Public Health.
It also approved the use of the central fund to send Thai medical and health personnel to help West Africa.
At the same time, Thailand will offer both financial assistance and necessary equipment to the affected countries. Donations will be sought through the Government, the Thai Red Cross Society, and the private sector.
According to a report from the Ministry of Public Health, the 2014 Ebola outbreak is one of the largest Ebola outbreaks in history.
It is affecting five countries in West Africa: Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone and Senegal. There are cases in Spain and the United States, as well.
The World Health Organisation reported that there were 8399 Ebola patients as of October 8. Out of this number, 4033 have so far died from the disease. The outbreak is most severe in Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone.
As part of its measures against the virus, Thailand has screened travelers at nine areas, such as Suvarnabhumi Airport, sea ports, and border checkpoints.
From June 8 to September 25, a total of 1689 travelers were screened. Education campaigns have been launched to provide the public with proper knowledge and information about the Ebola virus.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has suggested that, unless necessary, Thai people should avoid traveling to West Africa for the time being.
Public Health Minister Professor Dr Rajata Rajatanavin said that although Ebola poses a small risk to Thailand, the country should not be complacent.
The Ministry of Public Health is joining hands with relevant agencies in closely monitoring the outbreak situation. It has declared Ebola infection a dangerous disease. Thai medical and health personnel have also been trained to deal effectively with the infections.
The virus is transmitted to people from wild animals and it spreads in the human population through human-to-human transmission.
The infection is transmitted by direct contact with body fluids: blood, perspiration, and tissues of infected animals or people. It causes an acute, serious illness which is often fatal if untreated.
Early symptoms include sudden onset of fever, weakness, muscle pain, headaches and a sore throat. These symptoms can appear between 2 to 21 days after infection.
NNT
The WHO should recommend that there should be this moment not any international traveling by air in/out countries were the outbreak is so severe. It is a drastic step. But seems to be needed now! A aircraft departing with 1 patient on a 6-10 hour flight can touch down with 5-6 more infected people! Passengers as well crew! Ebola is a dangerous disease, like the Plague was before. Simple conclusion. Actions to try(!)further spreading are needed ( internationally)
Posted by Kurt on October 16, 2014 13:11