Ebola Samples to Be Sent to Turkey as New Measures Announced

In a written statement issued by the Ministry of Health’s Higher Infectious Diseases Committee, Ebola was described as a rare but life-threatening infectious viral disease, which can be transmitted through infected animals and through bodily fluids between humans.

The committee noted that symptoms of Ebola infection may include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and rash. In advanced stages of the disease, severe complications such as mucosal bleeding, septic shock, multiple organ failure and death may occur.

The statement said it had been decided that samples taken for diagnostic purposes would be sent to the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health National Public Health Reference Laboratory.

It was also noted that steps have been initiated by the Pharmaceuticals and Pharmacy Department to procure monoclonal antibody treatments used in the management of the disease, including Ebanga (ansuvimab-zykl) and Inmazeb.

The committee said it continues to closely monitor statements and decisions from international health organisations, adding that the public will be informed should any developments require additional measures.