It's now safe to go to this country: It's already Ebola-free

The World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Thursday that Ebola-ravaged Liberia was once again free of the deadly virus, prompting muted celebrations in the capital Monrovia.

Thousands died in Liberia at the height of the epidemic last year. It was declared Ebola-free once before, in May, only to see the fever resurface six weeks later.

"WHO declares Liberia free of Ebola virus transmission in the human population," the UN health agency said in a statement.

It added, "Liberia's ability to effectively respond to the outbreak of Ebola virus disease is due to intensified vigilance and rapid response by the government and multiple partners."

Liberia was long the hardest hit in the west African Ebola outbreak that began in December 2013 and which infected more than 28,000 people and claimed more than 11,000 lives mainly in Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone.

Experts warn that even after 42 days the danger is not over, considering that some Ebola cases are still surfacing in neighbouring Guinea and Sierra Leone.

The Ebola virus has been found lingering in the semen of male survivors many months after they test negative.

"The Ministry of Health and its partners will continue monitoring Liberia's borders and rebuilding the healthcare system to assure that Liberians remain safe." –End-

Image by: desknewsblog.com