The World Health Organization (WHO) is not only trying to battle the Ebola virus outbreak in Africa, but now has to combat the many rumors floating around that certain products can cure the virus. Currently, there is no known cure for Ebola.
WHO has said that the so-called “cures” are not proven to do anything at all to help Ebola patients, and the rumors are actually making the situation worse. Some of the remedies include drinking salt water and consuming Turmeric.
“Recent intense media coverage of experimental medicines and vaccines is creating some unrealistic expectations, especially in an emotional climate of intense fear,” noted WHO in a statement.
“The public needs to understand that these medical products are under investigation. They have not yet been tested in humans and are not approved by regulatory authorities, beyond use for compassionate care.”
Already, two Nigerians have died from drinking too much salt water in hopes of combating the disease. WHO believes that the false remedies are not being made out of malicious intent, but instead are a by-product of fear.
Unfortunately, a real cure will not be available anytime soon, although Canada has been working on an experimental drug that will be shipped over to Africa. The exact date that the drugs will be shipped is not yet known, however.
“WHO welcomes the decision by the Canadian government to donate several hundred doses of an experimental vaccine to support the outbreak response. A fully tested and licensed vaccine is not expected before 2015,” said WHO.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also issued a warning about the false Ebola treatments, telling consumers “to be aware of products sold online claiming to prevent or treat the Ebola virus.”
The FDA has instructed anyone who has seen any false remedies being advertised to report them here.
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