Flu Risk Much Greater Than Ebola: Wash Your Hands and Get a Flu Shot

By Sara Cameron, RN Oakland Mercy Hospital

Probably most everyone has heard the newest word in the media, one that seems to evoke fear and a little panic in our folks. That word is Ebola. Named for the Ebola River in West Africa, it is a virus that makes one very sick, with fever over 101, severe head and body aches, vomiting and diarrhea, along with hemorrhage in the final stages. It has resulted a death rate of 50% of those who are infected in Africa, where many can’t get treatment.

Ebola was first diagnosed in 1976 in the Congo, but only made news in the US this summer when medical missionaries who contracted the disease in Africa, came to back home to the US for treatment. This virus, as many are, is spread by body fluids like blood, tears, sweat, etc., to another person’s mucous membrane, like eyes, nose, mouth, or an open cut. That is why gloves, mask, eye protection, and gowns are used when caring for these folks.

Many people are wondering why we had to bring folks to the US to treat them. There are only 3 hospitals in Liberia, serving 4.2 million people. That country currently has the worst Ebola outbreak, and most folks can’t get treatment. Liberia is about 2/3 the land size of Nebraska. Our state population is 1.8 million and has over 100 hospitals, one being the Nebraska Medical Center with a specialized bio-containment unit. It is the largest unit of 4 in the country.

Our country really stepped up isolation techniques in response to the 9/11 terror, and the scares of small pox, anthrax and all those nasty viruses resurfacing in the hands of terrorists. Most all hospitals, including our own Oakland Mercy took advantage of purchasing isolation protective equipment, and conduct drills to use it. We have the knowledge and equipment to protect the patient and staff in the Emergency Room.

As you possibly have read, hand washing is the best prevention for this disease. Hand washing is the best defense one has against any disease. Alcohol based hand rubs are generally as effective, unless there is visible soil. Then you need soap and water. Hand washing is the best way to protect yourself against most viruses, in addition to getting a vaccine.

With all the scare about Ebola, it is best to be realistic. Our chances of contracting it in the United States are very slim to none. The virus out there to be concerned with this time of year is the flu. It is estimated that 40,000 will die this year in the US because of the flu and complications. Influenza, or flu is a virus which causes fevers, body aches, cough and congestion.

Flu shots are available now at Oakland Mercy Clinic, Lyons Mercy Clinic, and Tekamah Mercy Clinic, as well as many other places. They are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Schedule a time to get one.

Do yourself and your loved ones a favor, wash your hands and get a flu shot!