Public Health Agency offers recommendations for travellers in wake of Ebola outbreak

The World Health Organization says the Ebola virus outbreak in West Africa "requires a coordinated international response" to stop and reverse the spread, according to the latest update from the Government of Canada.

Cases and deaths continue to be reported in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, with a small number of probable and suspected cases reported in Lagos, Nigeria including one two deaths.

The Ministries of Health of Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone are working with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners to implement measures to control the outbreak and prevent further spread. WHO not recommend that any travel or trade restrictions be applied to Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria or Sierra Leone in relation to this outbreak.

The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends that travellers to Nigeria should practise special precautions to reduce the risk of transmission of Ebola virus disease.

The risk of infection is low for most travellers, although it may increase for those who are working in a health care setting since most human infections result from direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected patients. Travellers should immediately seek medical attention at the first sign of illness.

Recommendations for travellers, as offered by the Public Health Agency of Canada:

- Consult a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic at least six weeks before your departure. Protect yourself by following the recommendations below.

- Avoid direct contact with blood and other bodily fluids of people with Ebola virus disease or unknown illnesses.

- Avoid direct contact with bodies of people who died of Ebola virus disease or unknown illnesses.

- Avoid contact with any objects, such as needles, that have been contaminated with blood or bodily fluids.

- Avoid unprotected sexual activity with an infected person or a person recovering from Ebola virus disease.

- Health care workers are at higher risk and should adhere to strict infection prevention and control measures.

- Health care workers should practise strict infection control measures including the appropriate use of personal protective equipment (i.e., gowns, masks, goggles and gloves) when providing care for suspect or confirmed cases.

For the complete Government of Canada release, click here.