Now that multiple cases of the Ebola virus have been confirmed in the U.S., the nation's first responders are gearing up to deal with the illness. While government officials have clearly stated that the risk of the virus becoming an epidemic within the country is extremely low, these emergency workers will be prepared to handle anything.
New York City
Because of its status as an international city, as well as being a typical point of entry to the U.S. from people all over the world, NYC has started taking preventative measures against Ebola. According to ABC 7 News New York, first responders at area airports have been given "High-Risk Kits," which contain biohazard bags, disinfecting wipes, face and eye masks, gloves and a gown. First responders will be called in to deal with airline passengers displaying symptoms of the contagious virus and will need this protective gear to prevent the spread of the disease. Special training has been given to ambulance workers in the region, with special instructions on how to deal with emergencies involving people who recently traveled to West Africa, where the Ebola outbreak began, noted the source.
Washington, D.C.
First responders in the nation's capital have also been involved in thorough training, with the city's officials regularly issuing memos reminding workers what to do in the event they encounter the disease. According to ABC 7 News, every emergency medical technician in the region has been equipped with hazard-prevention suits including boots, gowns and respirator masks. Nearby Dulles International Airport in Virginia will start Ebola screenings for symptomatic passengers, noted the source.
Chicago
According to NBC Chicago, the city's O'Hare International Airport is a popular destination for people traveling from Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia, the West African nations greatly affected by the Ebola outbreak. Because of this, first responders will screen any passengers arriving from these countries. In addition to asking them questions about their potential interactions with infected people, they will take their temperatures. Anybody showing any evidence of Ebola-like symptoms will immediately be quarantined and taken to an area hospital, reported the source.