A Multi-Faceted Approach to the Ebola Epidemic

Ebola has emerged as an extremely complex epidemic that has not only revealed a plethora of underlying problems in the affected countries, but calls for a complex and multi-faceted approach to address it.  Adequate and appropriate treatment of Ebola is one aspect of the solution, but a solid public health response is essential to the cessation of this epidemic as well.  In addition to the health-related measures that are required, understanding and addressing the cultural factors of the region plays a huge role in stopping the spread of the virus.  Additionally, there is the monumental task of emotional and psychosocial care for survivors and family members, and the secondary effects of the epidemic which are rapidly exacerbating the problem.  As economies collapse, families are shattered and the community structures bend under the added weight of the epidemic, food security, orphan care and economic support needs must be addressed from a wholistic public health viewpoint.