The Ebola surge in West Africa is “one of the most challenging outbreaks” the World Health Authority has ever faced,according to the UN body.<br /><br />Guinea appears to be the epicentre where at least 157 cases have led to 101 fatalities.<br /><br />In neighbouring Liberia 21 suspected incidents have been reported with seven deaths, five of which have been confirmed.<br /><br />It is the first time Ebola has been detected in Liberia and Guinea and the outbreak covers a huge geographical area.<br /><br />As fear begins to grip communities the rumour mill is turning with the WHO having to combat quack cures.<br /><br />It is circulating that hot chocolate, coffee and raw onions taken once a day for three days will kill the virus.<br /><br />There is no vaccine nor specific treatment to combat Ebola. <br /><br />In Guinea a Doctors Without Borders clinic was closed after it was attacked by an angry mob, which believed the virus was brought in by staff.<br /><br />Ebola is contracted by direct contact with blood, secretions and bodily fluids of infected people or animals.
