The Ebola Virus and Human Rights Concerns in Africa

Ebenezer T. Durojaiye, Gladys Mirugi-Mukundi

Abstract

In the wake of the Ebola virus disease (EVD) that is ravaging parts of Africa certain measures are being taken by governments to prevent the spread of the epidemic within their borders. Some of these measures are drastic and may likely have implications for the fundamental rights of individuals. The EVD outbreaks have brought to the fore again the tension between public health and human rights. This article discusses the origin and mode of transmission of the EVD and then considers the human rights challenges that may arise as a result of states’ responses to the disease in Africa. (Afr J Reprod Health 2015; 19[3]: 18-26).

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