Western Africa is currently in the midst of a deadly Ebola outbreak, causing panic throughout the region. According to the United States Agency for International Development, “Since December 2013, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone have reported 7,157 suspected and confirmed cases. New cases continue to be recorded indicating that the outbreak – which has an overall fatality rate of 55%– has not been contained.” 

 

The Ebola virus is a severe disease that is often fatal. Western Africa is especially susceptible to Ebola because local health workers lack experience with the disease. Ebola is not an airborne virus; it is transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluid. During an outbreak, those at the highest risk of infection are health workers, family members and people who have been in close contact with an Ebola patient. Without proper education and equipment, Ebola can quickly spread.

 

The Department of Defense has joined in the fight against this deadly disease by providing coordination of logistics, training and engineering support through the U.S. Africa Command. 

 

Many CFC-O charities have also mobilized staff and are responding to the Ebola outbreak. Donate today to support charities fighting this deadly disease. Your generous payroll allotment or monthly recurring contributions ensure these organizations have a reliable source of funding to continue their work in Western Africa.