Heilsarmee Switzerland boosts Ebola prevention efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo through health clinics, schools, and community outreach.

The Salvation Army in Switzerland has increased its efforts to combat the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. A Swiss woman infected with Ebola is currently receiving treatment in the country, with her spouse in isolation as a close contact. The Federal Office for Health has confirmed no risk to the Swiss population. However, the outbreak remains a critical concern for communities in affected regions of the DRC.

The Salvation Army has a significant presence in the DRC, operating 34 health clinics and nearly 620 schools. These local structures are being utilized for prevention work, including training health clinic staff and equipping facilities to handle potential Ebola cases. The International Development of Heilsarmee Switzerland has allocated 15,000 Swiss francs for these measures, extending support to non-Salvation Army health facilities as well.

Heilsarmee Switzerland is also assisting its partner organization on the ground with project management and securing additional funding. A further 70,000 Swiss francs is currently under review for approval. The plan includes providing local Salvation Army managers with training and resources to educate communities about Ebola, contagion risks, and protective measures. This includes distributing hygiene items like soap and purchasing temperature measuring devices for regular health checks.

Doctor Serge Musasa Lungu, medical director of the Salvation Army in the DRC, highlights the ongoing challenges. “The situation remains tense – in some places there are gradual improvements. There is still great concern in the eastern border areas. We are also reporting cases of children under five for the first time.” A new nationwide strategy aims to slow and stop the spread of the virus, with the Salvation Army’s local structures playing a key role.

Dr. Lungu emphasizes three main challenges: raising awareness among the local population, improving the monitoring of contagions, and enhancing protection against Ebola. The Salvation Army plans to involve its schools more in prevention efforts. With 620 schools already in operation, the organization intends to prepare these institutions to handle potential Ebola cases, expanding its reach beyond urban centers to rural communities.

Through its network of health clinics, schools, and local communities, the Salvation Army aims to provide information and prevention measures to a broader population. This approach reflects a commitment to protecting the vulnerable and promoting health and safety in affected regions.

Source: Read the original report (translated from German)