News of a second Dallas health care worker testing positive for Ebola has prompted officials in Chicago to take extra precautions.
Chief Medical Officer Julie Morita maintains the risk of infection is extremely low, but the virus is persistent. The recent cases of Ebola in the United States have prompted first responders to receive new training and pressed officials to create “fact sheets” for those concerned about the virus.
“We want everyone to be able to access this information,” Morita said.
Meanwhile, officials at Rush University Medical Center are holding “Ebola planning meetings.” The hospital is one of two designated to handle any potential Ebola cases in Chicago.
Infectious disease expert Dr. John Segreti emphasized that while the public faces little risk of contracting the virus, healthcare workers are far more likely.
“The sicker the patient gets, the more virus they have and even after the patient dies the number of virus particles continues to increase,” Segreti said.
A special team of doctors, nurses and support staff have volunteered to take care of any Ebola patients arriving at Rush and they’ll be the first trained on how to use protective equipment that exceeds CDC recommendations.
“Waterproof gowns, leggings that are waterproof, a waterproof hood that covers the entire head, a visor that covers the opening of the face and a procedure mask,” Segreti said.
Gov. Pat Quinn reiterated his confidence in the Illinois Department of Public Health Wednesday as did Mayor Rahm Emanuel.
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Emanuel added that the healthcare system is a backup and said the work really needs to be done at airports.
“The main goal is to make sure that our airports and our screening procces are in place,” Emanuel said.
Health officials say an Ebola hotline is being setup in Illinois to assist residents with any questions surrounding the virus.
