San Carlos Apache Tribe asked this question on the Ebola disease virus - General Question for Candidates and Incumbents: If the U.S. is preparing for the possible widespread outbreak of #Ebola, do you think the #SCAT should be as well? Why or why not? If so, then what would that entail and who would be in charge of execution of plan...? This is my answer- The Apache people’s culture is based upon religion, and all our laws and code are derived from the principles of our beliefs. Apaches have lived in a world filled with epidemics, and we have survived them all. At present, we are faced with the fear of the Ebola disease virus, which is said to be fatal and has no vaccine. Its treatment is mainly supportive nursing, body fluid replenishment, and blood transfusion. Some patients have died, and only a few have survived it. However, I am hopeful that in the long run, the Ebola disease virus may not affect us in proportion as it is made out to be. We have survived by our beliefs in God, whether it is in our traditional or Christian ways. Both have one thing in common- prayer. I know many of you will offer a plea for us and ask God to protect us, as He has before. As for me, I am not afraid to face tomorrow because of the belief that God will hear our prayers. With that in mind, as a Tribal Leader this is my opinion on the Ebola virus disease. In the question posed by the Tribe, the key word is “widespread” which means that the epidemic may affect everyone. According to my readings, Ebola virus disease is very contagious, and it can be contracted by close personal contacts. The symptoms will show within 2 to 20 days, and the average has been about 8 to 10 days or a longer period. The symptoms are as follows: · Fever · Severe headache · Muscle pain · Weakness · Diarrhea · Vomiting · Abdominal (stomach) pain · Unexplained hemorrhage (bleeding or bruising) In order to prevent the spread of the Ebola disease virus, I believe that preparation is an absolute requirement. We have the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Department which is designated to take the lead in matters such as this. Currently, Loretta Stone is the EPA Director. Her department’s role is to facilitate communications and establish protocol between Indian Health Services and the Tribe. In addition, they are to coordinate with relevant departments, such as the Police, Emergency Medical Services, Fire Prevention and other Departments, in dealing with epidemics. Among the duties established is for the EPA to provide training to these Emergency Response Departments in handling calls involving emergencies like Ebola. As an example, it has been determined that Ebola is contracted by contact with body fluids, such as sweat, blood, feces, urine, and saliva (just to name a few) and contact with an infected dead body. In that regard, training on how to deal with an infected deceased person becomes very important to ensure that our emergency employees will be safe. Since Ebola is being discussed and contended with by various concerned groups, it has been Washington’s primary focus as well. In fact, Indian Health Services has already been directed to respond by establishing protocol and treatment for Indian Tribes. Such proactive approach is happening right now. The tribe’s role is to address it at their level, and that entails educating people about Ebola, how it is contracted, how it is treated, and how to prevent it. So much of it has already been in the works since the news of Ebola has been discovered here in the United States. We as a Tribe have already begun planning for epidemics, and it should be on going. At present, should Ebola reach massive proportions the Tribe needs to identify space for containment (where those who are affected can be housed) because many of the Tribes in the State of Arizona feed in to the Phoenix Medical Center. Our clinic will fill up real fast, and we will need alternative space. Hospitals that have had to deal with Ebola have expressed concerns for adequate supplies of protective gear for those who are in contact with infected persons. Indeed, the shortage of protective gear presents a serious concern that the Tribe must address now. Moreover, educating the members of the Tribe has to be mandatory. As the old saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound cure.” To effectively accomplish this, the message must be taken to each subdivision in every district reservation wide because prevention would go a long way in fending off Ebola. Personally, cleanse you hands often, avoid touching your hands to your mouth, avoid crowded places, and get your flu shots. These will help you decrease your chance of getting infected. Henceforth, let’s all educate ourselves on the Ebola disease virus, so that we will be well-informed and protected.
Posted on: Tue, 21 Oct 2014 06:57:02 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015