Water access problems hamper Ebola prevention in Bunia
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Le Potentiel
Illustrative image · Damilola Saka · Pexels · Licence PexelsA lack of water and handwashing facilities is undermining Ebola prevention at the ISP displaced persons’ site in Bunia. Olivier Bavi Karba, president of the Ituri Association of Displaced Persons, called for preventive measures to be maintained, while the WHO recalled the risks linked to movements and inadequate hygiene services.
Difficulties accessing water and the lack of handwashing facilities are undermining Ebola prevention at the Institute of Education (ISP) displaced persons’ site in Bunia, according to Olivier Bavi Karba, president of the Ituri Association of Displaced Persons (ADPI), quoted by Le Potentiel. He urged residents to maintain preventive measures and follow health recommendations, including when travelling to host neighbourhoods.
Olivier Bavi Karba called for vigilance to extend to host communities to limit the risk of exposing other residents. The World Health Organisation said in June that population movements, overcrowding and inadequate water, sanitation and hygiene services complicate early case detection and prevention of transmission, Le Potentiel reports.
Restoring handwashing facilities, ensuring the permanent availability of water and soap, and strengthening community awareness are identified as priorities at the site, according to Le Potentiel. These measures should enable displaced people to effectively apply the health recommendations.
