While much of the attention around the current Ebola outbreak has been on treating patients, combatting the fears, stigma and myths associated with the virus is another important component of the Red Cross response.
In several countries across West Africa, local Red Cross volunteers have been mobilized to help disseminate information in their community, to share facts and dispel myths about Ebola. The goal is to reach millions of people in the region, using a variety of methods, including SMS and radio broadcasts. They are also involved in contact tracing activities.
In Canada, these same fears and myths can deter aid workers from travelling to an effected country and working in an Ebola treatment centre. Yet,
more health workers are badly needed in the region.
Photo credit: Victor Lacken/IFRC
To help demystify Ebola, we encourage you to check out these
five common myths and this
infographic with facts on Ebola.
You can also help spread the facts, not fears on Twitter and other social networks with these short messages:
Precautionary measures: masks, gloves, gowns & isolation units can easily prevent transmission of Ebola:
http://bit.ly/1D4y2Js #EbolaFacts
Ebola doesn’t spread through casual contact, on the street, talking to people or shopping:
http://bit.ly/1D4y2Js #EbolaFacts
There is no need to be afraid of healthy people, regardless of where they come from:
http://bit.ly/1D4y2Js #EbolaFacts
People infected with Ebola can survive. Prompt, quality care of patients improves the odds of survival.
http://bit.ly/1D4y2Js #EbolaFacts
While a high % of people infected with Ebola in Africa have died, many lack access to health care:
http://bit.ly/1D4y2Js #EbolaFacts
There’s no vaccine or specific treatment for Ebola. Seeking care early increases chance of survival:
http://bit.ly/1D4y2Js #EbolaFacts
Travels restrictions can create even more problems for aid workers who want to help:
http://bit.ly/1D4y2Js #EbolaFacts
Ebola is not a potent virus, but is spreading because of healthcare disparities in West Africa:
http://bit.ly/1D4y2Js #EbolaFacts
Ebola isn’t as infectious as TB or polio. Infection requires a lot of contact with the virus:
http://bit.ly/1D4y2Js #EbolaFacts
You can also support the Red Cross response to the Ebola outbreak by donating to the
West Africa Ebola Fund.