Information about the Ebola virus is everywhere, in the news, television, and print, but much of science is unclear and misleading. Here are the leading questions and answers about this popular virus, Ebola transmission, and how you can avoid it.
Q: If I use public transportation a lot, should I be worried about getting Ebola?
A: Everyone has the need to transport themselves from place-to-place; and we come into contact with many people in closed off spaces, such as subways, planes, trains, and buses. The Ebola virus is spread from direct contact with contaminated blood, feces, and vomit, and the virus has a short lifespan.
Even if someone had the disease, which is only contagious when an individual has a high fever and is very ill, they would not have the strength to even access the subway and would most likely be in a hospital setting. In fact, a study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that 31 swabbed objects, including bedding, medical equipment, and various objects, posed no threat whatsoever and tested negative.
It would actually take a large, wet cough directly into the eye or mouth for someone to effectively transmit the virus. If it could be spread by a simple handshake or hug, the Ebola virus would be incredibly widespread.
Q: Based on the length of time outside the body, how long can the Ebola virus survive?
A: Direct sweat contact is not an issue, but the eye and mouth harbor the biggest threat of exposure. The Ebola virus is not as much of an issue once it dries out and dies in the air. Depending on the surface and humidity of the environment it subsides in, the virus quickly loses its potential for infection within a 24-hour period of time.
Q: What can I do to combat the Ebola virus? Are there any natural remedies or treatments?
A: Ultraviolet blood irradiation, a treatment whereby the blood is exposed to a spectrum of light, can potentially kill the virus. In addition, high-dose vitamin C IV therapy can be used to improve immune response and also kill viruses, which when given as an infusion, can by-pass the digestive system allowing the body to consume higher doses for an even longer immune-enhancing effect. Even though high-dose vitamin C IV therapy hasn’t been tried against the Ebola virus, it should be considered since this regimen has been proven to kill other viruses.
When used in conjunction, both high-dose vitamin C IV therapy and UVB has been known to kill many viruses and we urge all treating hospitals and Centers for Disease Control to try these modalities immediately before more lives are lost.
Even though the Ebola virus is causing alarm, you can drastically reduce your chances of contracting the virus with these easy-to-follow tips and prevention strategies while going about regular routine.
