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AN Ebola appeal has been launched by global children’s charity Plan UK to help families in countries worst-affected by the deadly outbreak.
At least 4,400 people have now died of the virus, mostly in the West African states of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.
The World Health Organisation estimates nearly 9,000 people have been infected.
Plan is working in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone to stop the spread of the deadly virus, with a focus on awareness-raising and child protection.
Tanya Barron, Chief Executive of Plan UK, says: “The spread of the Ebola virus is not just a humanitarian crisis, it is also an economic and social crisis.
“But above all it is a human tragedy repeating itself over and over again.
“The only way to stop this virus spreading is to break the chain of infection. This requires massive intervention to stop the health systems of these countries collapsing and thousands more lives being put at risk.
“People in the countries affected urgently need our support to prevent the outbreak from spreading further.”
At least 3,700 children have lost one or both parents to Ebola this year, according to UN figures.
Siah, 16, is having to look after her little brother and sister after their mother died.
“I was very scared. I didn’t know what would happen to Mama and I didn’t know what would happen to me,” she says.
“Sadly, she didn’t make it and she died. I came back with my little sister and my brother. We cry every day and night because of Mama.
“I can’t imagine how I will take care of the children without any help,” she adds.
In Guinea, where the outbreak started, Plan has launched radio and poster campaigns and is campaigning in communities.
With the World Food Programme, aid workers are also distributing food in affected areas, where restrictions on movement have resulted in food insecurity.
Plan has set up hand-washing facilities in Lofa and Bomi counties in Liberia and is also supporting health teams in their work.
The charity is also working in Sierra Leone on awareness-raising and plans to set up a centre for children orphaned by the disease.
To donate to the appeal go to www.plan-uk.org/ebola
For more information on Plan’s work or to make a donation call 0800 526 848 or visit www.plan-uk.org
