Piotr Kowalczuk
Epidemic
According to World Health Organization (WHO) estimates, 3,605 cases of Ebola infection have been confirmed so far. There have been 1,587 deaths. The staggering mortality rate is 44%. The epidemic, which began in May in Ituri province, has spread to four other provinces and continues to spread at an exceptionally rapid pace.
Maternal mortality is rising
One of the most serious consequences of the epidemic is the situation of pregnant women. Fearing infection or isolation, many of them have given up prenatal examinations and avoid hospitals even at the time of delivery. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), maternal mortality in Ituri has almost doubled since the beginning of the epidemic, from an average of 3.1 to 5.8 deaths per week. Naturally, the number of births outside medical facilities has increased. In addition, the healthcare system lacks adequate resources to combat the epidemic. Staff are often on strike, and hospitals and medical personnel are frequently victims of attacks by both sides of the armed conflict.
The Church helps
In the face of the Ebola epidemic, the Catholic Church and its organizations, mainly Caritas, are trying to come to the rescue. In addition to delivering basic necessities to parishes, they are involved in health education. They appeal for the avoidance of risky gatherings and traditional funerals (touching the bodies of the deceased is one of the causes of infection). Local churches are introducing strict safety rules during services, cooperating with missionaries and medical services.
