Health Official Answers Locals' Questions On Ebola
MIAMI (CBSMiami) --There are many concerns and lots of questions regarding the deadly Ebola virus.
"It is scary because it is in the states,"said Andres Hidalgo a Doral resident.
CLICK HERE To Watch Marybel Rodriguez's Report
It's on everyone's minds and now that Ebola has hit closer to home many locals want to know what officials are doing to prevent the rare disease from reaching South Florida.
"The Health Department is open 24/7, 365 days a year we are here to take care of many issues," said Lillian Rivera with the Florida Health Department.
CBS4's Marybel Rodriguez spoke with several people who had questions about Ebola and wanted answers. Rodriguez visited Florida's Health Department and found the answers.
READ: South Florida Preparing As Ebola Arrives In U.S.
One viewer wanted to know if Ebola could be transmitted through the air or water? Rivera answered that question by saying no, and says if it is the only message they take away from her is that Ebola is not transmitted by air.
CLICK HERE To Watch Eliott Rodriguez Speak With Dr. Aileen Marty
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Ebola can only be transmitted by direct contact with the blood or body fluids of a person who is sick with Ebola through a cut, eyes, nose or mouth. Another way is direct contact with objects like needles or syringes that have been contaminated with the blood of an infected person or animal.
READ: Why Americans Shouldn't Panic Over Ebola
Another question on the mind of a viewer was the precautions being taken at the airport as far as screenings go. Rivera answered "We are not actively testing people for temperature because we don't have direct flights from West Africa."
Although the CDC says the risk of an Ebola outbreak in the U.S. is very low they are taking all the necessary precautions and say there is no need to panic.
"You have a wonderful healthcare system, wonderful hospitals ready to serve you. You could not be in a better place Florida is really prepared to deal with this disease and any other diseases that show up at our doorstep," said Rivera.
READ: Why Americans Shouldn't Panic Over Ebola
As for how schools are approaching Ebola, both Miami-Dade and Broward School Board say they are working closely with the Health Department and say they will follow their recommendations if needed.
Click here for more information Florida Department of Health's handout on the Ebola virus.
For the CDC's information on the virus, click here.
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