Unless you have been purposefully avoiding the news, it is next to impossible to have missed the Ebola outbreak here in Dallas, Texas. I know the news stories have caused alarm in you as they have the staff here at North Dallas Denture Center. Here are some things you need to know about this illness.
What is The Ebola Outbreak in Dallas
Just a few weeks ago, in September, the CDC confirmed the first case of Ebola. A man traveled here to Dallas by airplane from Liberia. He exhibited symptoms and was admitted to Texas Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas.
Once the CDC learned of the symptoms and the man’s travels, they had him tested. When the virus was confirmed, all those that had close contact with him were identified. On October 8, 2014, he passed away from the condition.
Just after the man died, a medical provider from the hospital was diagnosed with the virus. That individual was treated and is now home. Another worker also contracted it and was med flighted to Georgia.
As of October 23, one more case of Ebola has been reported by an individual that was a part of Doctors Without Borders. That doctor flew into New York City and has been isolated.
How is the CDC Monitoring Symptoms
For those that have come in contact with people who were diagnosed with the virus, there is daily monitoring going on. Over the last few days, the CDC has changed their monitoring methods. You can read what they are doing to stop the outbreak HERE.
What You Should Do to Protect Yourself From Ebola
The virus is contracted by coming in contact with bodily fluids of an infected person. You should be washing your hands often and using alcohol based sanitizer.
Stay away from blood or other bodily fluids of people that are sick. Do not handle cloth or bandages that have come in contact with blood or fluids.
It is best to avoid touching blood or bodily fluids of everyone around you. You do not know who has been exposed to the virus. Use gloves if you are unable to avoid cleaning up blood or bodily fluids.
Ebola symptoms can be confused with flu symptoms. It is a good idea to use caution around anyone that is sneezing, coughing, or running a fever.
How Do I Know If I Am Exhibiting Symptoms
Headaches and fevers can be the start of Ebola symptoms. Others include muscle pains or aches. Feeling weak and overly tired is a sign the body is trying to heal itself.
You might experience diarrhea, vomiting or stomach pains. Hemorrhaging and bruising can occur as well. These symptoms can show up as early as 2 days after exposure and up to 21 days.
Most of the symptoms of Ebola are similar to the flu or colds.The only way to know if you have the flu or something else is to be tested at a medical facility. If you have any doubts about whether or not you have been infected, make an appointment with your doctor. It is better to put your mind at ease than to worry.
What is North Dallas Denture Center Doing to Stop the Spread
Everyone in our office is taking extra precautions during this time. We have strict procedures in place to make certain that all tools are cleaned properly. All of our work surfaces are sanitized thoroughly throughout the day.
Dr. Roe and all of his dental assistants wash their hands frequently. Fresh gloves are put on in between washings. We make sure that we wear face masks to keep you from coming in contact with bodily fluids or other germs.
Please feel free to ask us if we have washed our hands or cleaned the tools. We want you to feel comfortable during your visit.
Should I Go to The Dentist While People in Dallas Have Ebola
The cases we are dealing with in our area is certainly something to feel concern about. Since two workers have been diagnosed with the virus, we can understand your hesitancy toward going to a medical facility.
We have committed to the patients of North Dallas Denture Center, to follow the guidelines the CDC has outlined for medical care facilities. We are always careful to keep you from coming in contact with anything that will harm you.
As the news develops, we are keeping a watchful eye. We will do whatever is necessary to keep from spreading the virus here in Texas.
