“With the first case of Ebola virus being confirmed in Dallas, we will be monitoring the situation and providing you with further updates and resources as needed.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recognizes that even a single case of Ebola diagnosed in the United States raises concerns. We reaffirm the CDC’s statement that the U.S. medical systems and public health infrastructure are well equipped to contain the virus and limit any further potential threats.
The CDC and public health officials in Texas are taking precautions and following protocols to identify people who have had close personal contact with the ill person. Health care professionals have been reminded to use meticulous infection control at all times.
According to the CDC, Ebola does not spread through casual contact or through the air. Ebola is spread through direct contact with bodily fluids of a sick person or exposure to objects, such as needles, that have been contaminated.
Standard treatment for Ebola includes hospitalization and treatment with supportive therapy, and treating complicating infections. These are covered benefits.
There are currently no FDA-approved vaccines or drugs that have been proven to prevent or treat Ebola. Should questions about coverage for specific drugs arise, we will work with providers and authorities with the intent of ensuring that we do what is right for our members.
We stand ready to assist doctors, hospitals and public health organizations in serving our members and the community.