AFRICA/LIBERIA - A Liberian boy who beat Ebola

Foya (Agenzia Fides) - In the Ebola-confirmed area of Doctors Without Borders (MSF) Case Management Centre (CMC) in Foya, Liberia, roughly two thirds of patients don’t survive the Ebola virus. The patients gather on wooden benches and plastic chairs. Out of a transistor radio plays loud Azonto, music originating from Ghana. People are weak, lying in their beds while their immune systems are trying to fight the deadly invader in their bodies, except one, a young boy of 11 years, who with optimism and cheerfulness, defeated the disease. He was first admitted in August, he tested negative for Ebola and was discharged. Over night he developed some signs and was readmitted the next day.
According to the testimony of an MSF doctor who has just returned from Foya the boy was a clear Ebola patient. The doctors treated him with multivitamins, paracetamol, oral rehydration solution, antibiotics and with antimalarial pills.
The second Ebola test result returned and it was as expected – positive, but he continued to feel good and run around. "We couldn’t believe it", says a doctor. "We thought it must have been a mistake". When the medical staff took another blood test a few days later, they realised that there had been no mistake. The boy still tested positive. "His medical record is outstanding but not exceptional", states the doctor. "But his attitude is definitely exceptional. Every day, the boy spreads a good spirit to the patients and staff. He is always smiling and happy". In September, fourth test returns from the laboratory in neighbouring Gueckedou, Guinea. It is negative, finally. As soon as he learns the good news, the boy runs out of the Center screaming his joy.
MSF currently has 41 international staff and 444 national staff working in Foya, northern Liberia.
MSF is also running several outreach activities, such as health promotion, safe burial practices, and an ambulance service.
In nearby Voinjama, MSF is currently training Ministry of Health staff in the hospital on triage of patients. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 11/10/2014)