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Ebola

Ebola is a rare but serious viral disease. Infection mainly occurs through direct contact with body fluids from an infected person who is ill or has died. Symptoms after relevant travel or exposure require immediate telephone advice: call ahead and do not arrive at a waiting room unannounced.

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  • Ebola is a rare, serious viral infection that mainly occurs in outbreaks in parts of Africa.
  • Infection occurs through direct contact with blood or other body fluids from an infected person who is ill or has died, or with contaminated material.
  • Someone without symptoms does not normally transmit the virus; infectiousness begins after symptoms develop.
  • The incubation period is usually a few days and may last up to 21 days according to international guidance.
  • Early symptoms resemble many other tropical or common infections. Only specialist testing can confirm Ebola.
  • After relevant travel or exposure, call first. Do not arrive at a waiting room unannounced or use public transport to reach care.
  • Early supportive treatment and safe infection prevention improve care and limit further spread.

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Further reading

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B
Bird fluBird flu is infection with an influenza A virus that mainly circulates among birds and rarely infects people, usually after intensive unprotected contact with sick or dead animals or a contaminated environment. Symptoms range from a red eye and mild flu to severe pneumonia. Report symptoms after relevant exposure immediately before entering a waiting room, so testing, isolation and early antiviral treatment can be arranged safely.
Z
Zika feverZika fever is a usually mild viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes and also through sex. The greatest risks are serious harm to an unborn baby and rare nerve complications. Pregnancy after possible exposure, increasing muscle weakness or signs of severe dengue require prompt assessment.
M
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