Ebola kills mercilessly in the DRC

As part of the response to the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Non Violence Alerte (NOVA) contributed to community prevention and awareness-raising efforts, particularly through:

• Community awareness-raising on Ebola Virus Disease, its modes of transmission, and prevention measures;

• Community mobilization and engagement of local leaders, youth, women, and community health volunteers in prevention activities;

• Organization of information and awareness-raising sessions within communities and public spaces;

• Dissemination of messages on hygiene, prevention, and protection measures against Ebola;

• Addressing rumors, misinformation, fear, and stigma related to the disease;

• Promotion of early access to health facilities and services in case of symptoms or suspected infection;

• Raising awareness about the importance of reporting and referring suspected cases to the appropriate health services;

• Support for the promotion of hygiene and infection prevention and control (IPC) practices at community level;

• Organization of community dialogues to strengthen trust between communities and response actors;

• Identification of community concerns and perceptions in order to adapt awareness-raising messages to local needs;

• Mobilization of young people as agents of change and prevention advocates within their communities;

• Contribution to reducing stigma against people affected by Ebola and their families.