Ebola frontline.

Date:
2015
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About this work

Description

This documentary follows the staff and patients at the Médecins Sans Frontières Ebola treatment centre in Kailahun, Sierra Leone during the most recent outbreak of Ebola. Contemporary clips from Sierra Leonean, U.S. and British news broadcasts concerning Ebola are used throughout the programme. Dr Jay Achar and Field Coordinator Axelle Vandoornick describe the conditions in the treatment centre and discuss the logistics of running such a complex and wide-scale medical programme. Dr Javid Abdelmoneim discusses his motivations for applying to work for MSF in Sierra Leone. Local Sierra Leoneans discuss how the government-initiated three-day lockdown will affect their lives. Abdelmoneim is filmed entering the high-risk zone for the first time. A camera worn on the outer layer of his Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) provides a unique view of the high-risk zone inside the treatment centre. Personal Protection Equipment is described in detail, and the removal of the equipment is shown. Abdelmoneim explains feelings of paranoia about contracting Ebola, which have become an occupational hazard for those who work in the centres. The screening and admittance process for the health facility is shown. A family of five is introduced, and their progress within the centre is followed. Dr Arash Izadkhasti talks through each family member's symptoms and treatment. Laboratory Unit Chief Cindi Corbett describes how the centre initially diagnoses Ebola. Contemporary news footage explaining the drug ZMAPP is shown. Abdelmoneim stresses the difference between supportive and curative care within this Ebola health facility. He explains how Ebola sufferers die, and footage of dead and dying patients are shown. Care during convalescence within the centre is explained. Psycho-Social Support Counsellor Idrissa Fefegula discusses one of his patients, who suffered sudden death. Psycho-Social Support Counsellor Fatmata Swarray discusses Ebola orphans. A young Ebola orphan is shown suffering from painful symptoms. A purpose-built cemetery for Ebola victims is shown.

Publication/Creation

2015.

Physical description

1 DVD (54 min.) : sound, colour ; 12 cm.

Copyright note

Blakeway Productions for BBC.

Notes

Originally broadcast on 17 November 2014 on BBC 1.

Creator/production credits

Produced and directed by Steven Grandison.
Narrated by Hugh Quarshie.

Type/Technique

Languages

Where to find it

  • LocationStatusAccess
    Closed stores
    5810D

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