As concern mounts worldwide about the spread of the ebola virus, the discussion looked at the implications that the pandemic would have on health systems, and regional efforts aimed at promoting the free movement of people and goods.
The panel of speakers included Sharon Ekambaram of Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors without Borders), Prof. Guy Richards whose academic research interests include ebola, Fatima Shabodien of Action Aid, Dr Bhekinkosi Moyo of the Southern Africa Trust and Dr Frew Benson, the chief director of communicable diseases for the National Department of Health.
The panel addressed questions posed by members of the media, representatives from think tanks and non-profit organisations.
In unpacking the various peripheral issues and challenges that the spread of the virus has had on the continent, the medical experts clarified and reiterated that although ebola was highly contagious and classified as a communicable disease, it was not airborne and could only be spread through contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person.
Ekambaram noted that the current outbreak was unprecedented in its scale and impact, and that unfortunately along with the fear of the disease there had been a significant amount of stigma associated with it, resulting in some reports of foreigners being attacked.
Benson shared his experience from his visit to Sierra Leone and told of how that country’s entire health system was taking strain due to the ebola outbreak. He emphasised that South Africa would be able to contain the virus should incidents be reported here.
Members of the audience pointing out to the panel that people in informal settlements did not understand the technicalities of the disease, and that there was a need to go back to basics to explain and educate the vast majority of South Africans, so that they were better informed.
