New guide covers role of faith communities in Ebola response

New guide covers role of faith communities in Ebola response

iku

Mon, 11/02/2026 - 10:38

A “ Q&A Guide to Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease and the Role of Faith Communities,” prepared by the World Council of Churches Commission of the Churches on Health and Healing, is newly available.

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A worker uses an infrared thermometer to check for fever on everyone entering a clinic in Beni, a city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo that has been hard hit by the Ebola outbreak that began in 2018. The clinic is supported by IMA World Health and the Programme de Promotion de Soins Santé Primaires.

Photo: Paul Jeffrey/Life on Earth

The outbreak that began in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in May has spread to neighbouring countries. More than 10,000 people are now affected, and about half of them have died.

“Churches and faith communities are often the most trusted voices in the affected areas, and that gives them an important part in the response,” said Dr Manoj Kurian, director of the commission. “ They can share accurate information, counter fear and stigma, support safe and dignified burials, and help…