Red Cross Increases Response to Ebola Outbreak in Guinea

Guest post by Kathryn Dunmore, Red Cross Blogger

Red Cross has increased its response to help limit the spread of Ebola cases in Guinea, a west African country, since the outbreak began three weeks ago. This latest outbreak of the virus, which is highly infectious and can spread quickly through contact with infected persons or animals, has resulted in over 100 fatalities according to the latest report from the World Health Organization.
 

The Red Cross is mobilizing hundreds of local volunteers and deploying some international delegates with support from the IFRC to help in affected areas, including contributing to epidemic control and psychosocial support, identifiying and tracking those who may have come into contact with suspected cases, disinfecting the homes of Ebola victims, as well as to aid in raising awareness among communities on how to protect themselves from becoming infected. Red Cross societies in neighbouring countries are also on alert.

The need for Red Cross volunteers to quickly communicate lifesaving information and provide psychosocial support is paramount as fear and stigma related to the disease are becoming increasingly visible. Many residents are limiting their movements, refusing to venture too far from their homes. Fear of being marginalized or isolated may also cause people to conceal their illness. Survivors of Ebola, who have had family members die, also suffer from stigma. 

While there is no cure or vaccine, the virus can be prevented from spreading by ensuring those caring for infected persons are properly protected with gloves, masks and goggles. 

Technology is being used to help stem the spread of the virus. In Sierra Leone, the government has tasked the Red Cross society to conduct mass awareness-raising on how to best prevent the disease from spreading, using SMS technology to share its messages. Meanwhile, digital volunteers are helping map the spread of Ebola through Open Street Maps.