Americares is responding to the deadly Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The situation is truly urgent. The outbreak has already claimed over 130 lives, and more than 600 suspected cases have been reported so far. The World Health Organization has declared a global public health emergency, warning the outbreak may be far larger than reported. The situation is especially critical as this strain of Ebola currently has no approved treatments or vaccines.
Americares is working with local nonprofit organizations to support water, sanitation and hygiene education and prevention activities and ensuring frontline health workers have access to essential supplies and strong infection prevention measures.
Our response efforts are focused on:
--Preventing infection
--Delivering community-level education
--Improving access to safe water in affected areas
--Supporting local partners in rehabilitating and constructing water points in high-risk communities
--Distributing hygiene kits to health facilities and public spaces
We are coordinating with global partners to assess needs and identify how best to support response efforts. We’re also monitoring regional impacts and working with teams and partners in neighboring countries to strengthen preparedness and reduce cross-border risks.
Americares has extensive experience responding to Ebola, including the 2014–2016 West Africa epidemic—the largest and deadliest in history. Our approach focuses on partnering with trusted organizations to strengthen local health systems in affected communities.
We need your help to continue responding to this crisis.
Your support of Americares Worldwide Disaster Relief Fund is vital to our ability to act swiftly and effectively in times of crisis like this.
