The Sierra Leonean doctor who treated more than 100 Ebola patients has also died. Dr Sheik Umar Khan (pictured above), who was hailed as a national hero for disregarding his own health and helping sick patients, died today July 29th from the disease after being diagnosed with the virus last week. He contacted the virus despite wearing protective gear when treating patients.
In an interview last month, the 39yr old doctor had expressed fears for his life because of his constant contact with Ebola patients.
“I am afraid for my life. Health workers are prone to the disease because we are the first port of call for somebody who is sickened by the disease. Even with the full protective clothing you put on, you are at risk” He told Reuters
His death comes days after a senior doctor at Liberia’s largest hospital, Samuel Brisbane, died on Saturday at an Ebola treatment centre in Monrovia. 3 nurses working in the same Ebola treatment centre alongside Khan also died from the disease last week. Several other medics have been infected.
