The doctor leading the fight against Ebola in Sierra Leone is now being treated for the deadly virus, a statement from the presidency has said.

Sheik Umar Khan tested positive and has been admitted to hospital in Kailahun, the epicentre of the outbreak.

More than 630 people have died of Ebola in the three West African states since the outbreak began in Guinea in February, United Nations figures show.

It is the world’s deadliest outbreak to date and there is no cure for Ebola. It kills up to 90% of those infected but if patients receive early treatment, they have a better chance of survival. It spreads through contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids.

‘National hero’
The statement from State House said that the minister of health was in tears when she heard the news about Dr Khan.
-BBC