Local health officials have been making preparations – just in case – a case of the Eboloa virus is confirmed in the area. (links included to information material)
Officials at Mercy Medical center say that this week a team of about 25 individuals representing Mercy and community organizations convened to discuss procedures and their level of preparedness to identify and respond to the event that there is an individual or individuals with symptoms suspected to be that of the Ebola virus.
To assist in identifying suspected cases of Ebola, Mercy is asking patients if they have traveled outside of the US in the last 21 days into Ebola-affected areas or have been around anyone who has. To be proactive, the hospital reports they will be expanding the questioning to include whether individuals have been exposed to someone who has Ebola or is suspected to have Ebola.
At this time a Mercy spokes person tells K-R-O-S NEWS work is being done to solidify protocol for isolation of suspected patients if they were to encounter a patient who initially may fit the criteria. In addition, a team of Mercy colleagues are working closely to ensure that adequate supplies of equipment are on hand in multiple areas, this includes Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at the maximum level of protection that meets and exceeds CDC guidelines. The team is working with clinical staff to refresh on the proper use and removal of PPE and is testing competencies. At this time, Environmental Services, Lab and clinical areas are heightening awareness and reviewing protocols on infectious diseases and PPE.
What You Need To Know EBOLA Information Sharing EBOLA Information Sharing2 infographic
Mercy Medical Center Health officials stress it’s important to remember that Ebola is not a virus spread through the air, and is only contagious if the infected person is having active symptoms. Ebola is spread through direct contact with bodily fluids of a sick person or exposure to objects such as needles that have been contaminated.
Mercy, Community Health and IDPH recognize that even a single case of Ebola diagnosed in the United States raises concerns and we are committed to working together to ensure an appropriate response should the need arise.
According to the physicians who have worked with select infectious disease agents like Ebola, there is virtually no chance of spreading the infection when proper protocols are followed. Strict compliance is necessary to contain exposure.
