It was 1 August 2018 when the first cases of Ebola began to emerge in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). One year later, the nation faces a growing crisis as the outbreak is classified as a global health emergency.
The latest figures (30 July) reveal there are now 2,698 recorded cases and that more than 1,700 people have already died. It’s the second largest outbreak of Ebola in history.
Tearfund is working with local churches in the east of the country. So far at least 482 faith leaders have been trained, reaching more than 250,000 people with ways to prevent the spread of the disease. Pastors are sharing vital advice on washing hands, seeking medical help at the first sign of symptoms, and issuing guidelines on how to handle dead bodies.
Together with our partners, we’ve also set up triage units, toilets, incinerators and water supplies at health centres where Ebola is most prevalent.