A meeting of World Health Organisation (WHO) experts has declared the Ebola outbreak in West Africa as an ‘extraordinary event’ and a public health risk globally.

The group report that the possible consequences of international spread are particularly serious, and that a coordinated international response is necessary. The outbreak has now become the largest ever reported, with more than 1700 cases and 900 deaths. The discussions highlighted inadequate healthcare infrastructure in the most affected countries, and a high proportion of cases in healthcare workers due to inadequate use of personal protective equipment.

The WHO prompted countries with Ebola transmission to declare a national emergency and to restrict national travel of Ebola cases and contacts. Neighbouring countries were reminded to remain vigilant and ensure that they have appropriate early warning systems. Finally, WHO encouraged all countries to review their plans for preparing to manage cases of Ebola transferred in from affected areas.

James Salkeld, Bioquell Head of Healthcare, comments that: “Ebola is a frightening disease and prevention is paramount. Bioquell has hydrogen peroxide vapour (HPV) technology to assist with terminal decontamination of rooms vacated by patients with Ebola, and the Bioquell Pod to assist with patient segregation.”

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