Ebola Virus In Liberia

Traditions are important in every culture; in Liberia and many other West African countries infectious diseases run rampant due to specific social practices. Many Liberians continue to practice these traditions including the use of healers or spiritual doctors. These “doctors” often recommend alternative medicines, including the uses of herbs and other natural remedies. For example, many Liberians believe that washing their sick and infected relatives in local rivers will “cleanse” their beloved of the virus. The problem with this belief is that it is a foundational medical misunderstanding(not really “medical”), washing will not expel the virus. Furthermore, many of these local rivers serve as both drink water and bathing water. Consequently, by washing the dead or infected in the local river, the Liberians provide the ideal environment and situation for the Ebola virus to be spread. For instance, up river there may be a ceremonial washing while farther down the river a mother is collecting drinking water for her family. By directly ingesting the virus, the family is almost guaranteed infection. Upon infection, the family will traditionally visit the local healer and cause the infectious cycle to repeat. …show more content…
It interests not only my scientific side but my love for problem solving as well. My enthusiasm for the sciences stems from my mom who works full time as a nurse. She has worked in almost every unit in her hospital, making her well-rounded and a perfect source for all my inquiries regarding medicine and the practices surrounding it. The love for problem solving originated from my dad who has always pushed my analytical thinking and encouraged my investigative drive. For me, I believe it is crucial to not only identify the issue regarding the immense and rapid spread of disease in Liberia but also to provide an alternative method that will not interfere nor disrespect their existing