Ebola
Ebola virus disease (EVD), formerly known as Ebola haemorrhagic fever, is a severe, often fatal illness in humans. The virus is transmitted to people from wild animals and spreads in the human population through human-to-human transmission. 

The average EVD case fatality rate is around 50%. Case fatality rates have varied from 25% to 90% in past outbreaks. The first EVD outbreaks occurred in remote villages in Central Africa, near tropical rainforests, but the most recent outbreak in west Africa has involved major urban as well as rural areas. 

Community engagement is key to successfully controlling outbreaks. Good outbreak control relies on applying a package of interventions, namely case management, surveillance and contact tracing, a good laboratory service, safe burials and social
mobilisation.

Early supportive care with rehydration, symptomatic treatment improves survival. There is as yet no licensed treatment proven to neutralise the virus but a range of blood, immunological and drug therapies are under development. There are currently no licensed Ebola vaccines but 2 potential candidates are undergoing evaluation. Get an update on the Ebola situation Link to:

www.tourismupdate.co.za/Ebola.aspx

Malaria
Malaria is a common and serious illness transferred by mosquitos. Before your travel please seek professional medical advice to find out if you need anti-malarial tablets and which ones are most suitable for you. The tablets will probably offer good protection but you must also remember to use a good mosquito spray and wear light long clothing at dusk and dawn to avoid being bitten.

Vaccination
We strongly advise you to contact your local travel clinic or doctor well in advance of travelling as you may need vaccinations prior to travel.