Updated 05:32 PM EDT, Fri, Apr 26, 2024

Ebola Virus Outbreak 2014 News Update: FDA Issues Warning About Fake Cures Surfacing

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The recent Ebola outbreak in Africa has sparked panic across the world, bringing a 'Hollywood plot line' to the forefront of existence. In modern times, with the exception of AIDS and cancers, most diseases are curable due to vast advances in the medical sciences. There is a certain level of fear that comes from a virus that has no cure, leaving humans to witness first hand the power of nature.

The Ebola epidemic has given rise to money making opportunities, which are coming in the form of fake or unapproved cures not signed off by the FDA. To clarify, there is a difference between experimental drugs and pure fakes. The FDA sought to set all records straight by releasing a statement summing up the entire situation.    

"There are currently no FDA-approved vaccines or drugs to prevent or treat Ebola. Although there are experimental Ebola vaccines and treatments under development, these investigational products are in the early stages of product development, have not yet been fully tested for safety or effectiveness and the supply is very limited," the FDA said in a statement.

In the film "Dallas Buyers Club," based on the true story of an AIDS victim, Matthew McCaughey's character battled against the FDA for their failure to approve drugs that could have helped those inflicted with HIV and AIDS. That isn't to say that this is the same case, but when epidemics strike, the experimental stages of drugs must be hurried along.

"Individuals promoting these unapproved and fraudulent products must take immediate action to correct or remove these claims or face potential FDA action," the notice continued.

Nigeria and other African nations have been swarmed by 'rumored cures,' which are nothing more than moneymaking ploys. Nigeria was quick to condemn the actions of those involved and threatened to press charges against anyone peddling an unapproved drug.   

"The rumors themselves can actually cause a lot of damage," said Lagos state Commissioner for Health Jide Idris. "People react to rumors by carrying wrong information."

Misinformation has even affected American's who were fearful of allowing two American missionaries back into the country after they contracted the disease. The FDA went on to say that Ebola poses no threat to the American people.

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