Fears are rising in the United States and other countries that the Ebola epidemic may be spreading beyond West Africa. Health experts say that is unlikely, but they acknowledge the progress that digital technology has brought to the fight against Ebola.
West African Ebola Outbreak
Cases from March, 22 through Sept. 26, 2014. “Total cases” includes Nigeria, Senegal and the U.S., which as of publishing had 20 cases, one case and one case, respectively. Roll or mouse over chart for day-by-day data points.
More than 3,000 people have died in the Ebola outbreak and thousands more have been infected. Dr. William Schaffner has more than 30 years of experience in public health. He spoke to CCTV America’s Insight.
Healthcare workers and communities are finding that the use of digital technology helps to track the spread of Ebola, which then helps to prevent it. Smartphones are rapidly taking off in Africa, and certain applications help those in Ebola-affected areas. Such applications can help shorten diagnosis times, track the disease as it spreads, and disseminate public service videos.
CCTV America’s Frances Kuo reports.
Despite pledges of aid to West Africa, the situation there remains dire. Suzanne van Hulle from Catholic Relief Services lived for years in Sierra Leone and Senegal. She joined CCTV America’s Insight to talk about the efforts to stop Ebola from spreading.