RIVM has sent a message to Community Health Services (GGD's) containing information about how issues concerning Ebola are arranged in the Netherlands. The Community Health Service can use this information to inform GPs and after-hours clinics about Ebola and refer to the information available at the NHG and LHV. GPs are advised to inquire about the travelling history of potentially suspect patients by telephone. If a GP believes this might concern an Ebola infection, consultation with the relevant Community Health Service will take place immediately.
Currently, the Ebola outbreak in West Africa is spreading steadily, yet the risk of an infected patient coming from Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea or Lagos (Nigeria) remains limited. It is, however, possible for a patient who has recently returned from an area where Ebola is prevalent to report symptoms that fit in with the Ebola virus. Infection with the Ebola virus is possible only as a result of immediate contact with an Ebola patient or their body fluids. Taking a complete travel anamnesis and mapping the extent to which actual contact has taken place with the Ebola virus is of crucial importance. GPs can check this in an interview with the patient.
Should a GP suspect someone to be infected with the Ebola virus, he or she will immediately report this to the Community Health Service. Depending on the situation, the Community Health Service will take appropriate measures. Community Health Services are available for medical professionals in their region 24 hours a day and a Community Health Service can immediately consult RIVM at any time if required.