As of August 18, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that there have been 1,350 deaths from the most recent Ebola Virus outbreak and 2,473 confirmed cases. It continues to spread at an alarming rate and, unfortunately, medical staff who are working to contain the virus and treat those infected are at a very high risk. The WHO has stated that often the right protective equipment is not available, which includes basics such as gloves and face masks.
Ebola is spread when bodily fluids from an infected person or contaminated object come into contact with someone who is not infected. This means it is extremely important to take precautions when treating those who are infected. Therefore, it is essential that those caring for the victims need the best coverage possible, and it is problematic that the supplies necessary are not available.
As a result, it has been confirmed that several doctors have been infected with Ebola. On July 29, Dr. Sheik Humarr Khan, who was working on behalf of Doctors Without Borders, died of complications from the disease. More and more of the people trying to assist in treating the disease are falling ill and dying as a result of the lack of protective gear.
There are several organizations that have put together efforts to assist with this outbreak, and anyone can contribute by donating money or items.
UNICEF USA has contributed time and effort to contain the virus, such as handing out materials that spread awareness and prevention information. Currently, UNICEF USA is appealing for $2.6 million in an effort to assist with the Ebola outbreak, and you can contribute by donating. This will allow UNICEF to continue to effectively spread awareness and contribute to needed medical supplies. Click here to find out more and donate.
Doctors Without Borders has been actively involved since the initial outbreak in March. A lot of the information about the lack of the proper equipment has come from this organization. They are currently taking donations that will assist in protecting the doctors and nursers who are treating those with the virus. To learn more and to donate, click here.
Medical Teams International is an organization that has been around since 1979, assisting with medical needs all over the world. It is their goal and their mission to assist with “responding to disaster, conflict, and poverty at home and abroad to help save and improve the lives of millions of suffering people.” They currently are assisting with the Ebola Virus and are taking donations. Click here to learn more and to donate.
To discover more ways you can make a difference, check out:
- How You Can Volunteer–And Help Organizations All Over the World
- How Travelers Can Give Back On #GivingTuesday
- Donate Your Frequent Flyer Miles to Make-A-Wish Foundation
By Kandice Martellaro for PeterGreenberg.com
