Arsenal fans have been warned that title celebrations could lead to an Ebola outbreak. This follows Arsenal’s first Premier League title victory. Manchester City sealed the Gunners’ fate with a 1-1 draw against AFC Bournemouth.
Global Celebrations, Local Risks
Fans worldwide are set to commemorate what has been a historic season for the Gunners. Mikel Arteta’s side are closing out their season at Crystal Palace. They could yet win the UEFA Champions League as well.
However, celebrating won’t be as easy in some locations. Fans in Central Africa are at risk of worsening the ongoing Ebola outbreak.
The Republic of Uganda Ministry of Health sought to prepare fans to celebrate in a safe manner. This was noted in a social media post.
Ministry Issues Safe Celebration Advice
“Arsenal won the Premier League, this week. EBOLA should not win the weekend,” they wrote. The ministry provided specific advice.
- Avoid handshakes
- Avoid hugging
- Don’t share drinks
- Go to the nearest health facility if you are sick
- Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water
They added, “A true champion protects the whole team.”
Suspected cases can be reported by calling “0800-100-066,” or via “a free SMS to Ureport on 8500.” The ministry responded to comments, including one asking why fans should be permitted to celebrate at all. Their response: “Waiting for 22 years is not easy. They deserve to while observing SOPs.”
Another response read, “Prevention is better than cure. Wherever you are, celebrate with caution.” The ministry also simply said, “Arsenal fans, celebrate with caution. Enjoy.”
WHO Update on Ebola Outbreak
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization, shared an update on the Ebola outbreak on Friday.
“The #Ebola situation in the #DRC is deeply worrisome. So far, 82 cases have been confirmed, with seven confirmed deaths,” he wrote. “But we know the epidemic in the DRC is much larger. There are now almost 750 suspected cases and 177 suspected deaths.
“The situation in #Uganda is currently stable, with two confirmed cases, and one death reported. There have been no new cases or deaths reported.
“An American national who was working in DRC has also been confirmed positive, and transferred to Germany for care. We are aware of the reports today about another American national who is a high-risk contact who has been transferred to the Czech Republic.
“These numbers are changing as surveillance efforts and laboratory testing is improving, but violence and insecurity are impeding the response. Additional @WHO personnel have deployed to Ituri, the epicentre of the DRC outbreak, to support affected communities.
“I am in regular contact with the government officials of the affected cou