Pair assessed after possible contact with Ebola
Public Health England has confirmed two volunteers have been transported to the UK from West Africa after possible Ebola exposure.
Both individuals were aiding the fight against Ebola in Sierra Leone when they were potentially exposed to the virus in separate incidents. They were transported back to the UK on Friday (January 16).
In a statement, Public Health England said the individuals have not been diagnosed with Ebola, are not displaying any symptoms and are at low risk of developing infection. The measure is "highly precautionary".
The two volunteers will be assessed and monitored in hospital for the duration of their 21 day incubation period.
PHE's regional director Jenny Harries, said: "The risk to the public posed by these and indeed any of the returning workers is extremely low. We are confident that all appropriate public health actions have been taken, and will continue to be taken, to support these individuals and to protect the public’s health.
"It’s important to remember, in choosing to volunteer, that these individuals have taken a courageous step not only to help those affected in West Africa, but also prevent the spread of Ebola any wider."
Image CC BY 2.0/NIAID
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