Miami Doctor Back From Fighting Ebola In West Africa
MIAMI (CBSMiami) - A Florida International University doctor is back from fighting Ebola in West Africa.
Dr. Aileen Marty has returned from her month-long experience fighting on the front lines of Nigeria against the deadly disease.
"This is an extremely serious outbreak no question about it," she told CBS4's Gaby Fleischman. "Had Ebola spread in Nigeria it would have been a world calamity even worse than what we're facing right now."
Ebola has no cure or vaccine, so Marty's mission was to contain the virus and stop it from spreading globally.
The world-renowned doctor led a team of international experts to create a system for screening travelers.
"My role became creating a system for screening individuals, passengers to identify who is most likely to have possibly Ebola."
CLICK HERE To Watch Gaby Fleischman's Report
Several American doctors had been diagnosed with the disease in recent weeks. Having that in the back of her mind made the work challenging physically, emotionally and professionally.
"I took every precaution necessary, done in a way that I knew my personal risk was minimized," Marty said.
Another challenge for Marty was breaking down the barriers and connecting with her patients who knew little about the diseases. Many times, people would instantly become afraid of their diagnosed family member.
Marty believes education and commitment is key to battling the worst Ebola outbreak in history.
"The reality is it can be bright under control but it does take a lot of resources a lot of commitment," Marty said.
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