The deadly Ebola outbreak in West Africa has claimed more than 11,000 lives as of May 31, 2015. The United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon has applauded the progress made in fighting Ebola and has also warned of possible setbacks in case of lapse in vigilance.
Speaking at the General Assembly Informal Plenary on Ebola, Ban said, "We have made great strides towards bringing the outbreak under control. Liberia was declared Ebola-free on May 9, 2015, after 42 days with no cases. This is remarkable progress in what was once the worst affected country. It proves the power of strong national leadership, proactive national responders and communities, and international support in solidarity with the country's people. I applaud Liberia on reaching this milestone, but we cannot celebrate yet. As long as there are Ebola cases in any country in the region, all countries are at risk."
Ebola Virus Disease
Ebola is caused by a virus via direct contact with body fluids or infected blood. Scientists have identified five types of Ebola or Ebola hemorrhagic fever virus.
While warning of the virus spreading because of lapse in vigilance, Ban stressed that community engagement and active surveillance are essential. He urged the UN general assembly to continue lending its political weight to the effort to fight Ebola and donors to continue their contributions. Ban suggested that the UN system will work with national governments and regional partners to ensure that all investments in fighting Ebola serve as the basis for carrying out longer-term recovery and for strengthening national health systems.
Source: Medindia
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