Press Releases

Scientists gain better understanding of how Ebola disables people's immune defenses

PUBLIC RELEASE: 23-MAY-2017 Scientists gain better understanding of how Ebola disables people's immune defenses GALVESTON, Texas - University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston scientists have unlocked mysteries of how the Ebola virus hampers the body's natural defenses to speed the rate of infection and its accompanying lethal disease, according to a new report in PLOS Pathogens.

Local NGOs Champion 'Healthy Life' Campaigns

MONROVIA, December 10, 2016 --- Today Mercy Corps Liberia and its 23 NGO partners wrapped up a national workshop that brought together representatives from across the ECAP consortium, which is funded by USAID.

At the workshop, partners from all counties agreed to step up efforts to engage communities to fight some of the leading causes of diseases and ill health, including in some of Liberia’s most remote rural areas, and ensure sustained vigilance against Ebola.

Mobilizing communities to take charge of their health: The story of ECAP

This month Mercy Corps Liberia wraps up its innovative social mobilization program, the Ebola Community Action Platform (ECAP), which played a pivotal role in the Ebola response. It will be well remembered by all involved, and it offers unique insights into emergency programming. 

Local Partners Celebrate Community Health Achievements

PAYNESVILLE, May 26, 2016 --- Today Mercy Corps Liberia hosted a national workshop that brought together Liberian NGOs, officials from the Ministry of Health, USAID and media partners who have contributed to a 1-year community health program known as ECAP 2, which has now directly benefitted 1.3 million Liberians with critical health information through community campaigns.

Community Radio Reaches Millions in Liberia

MONROVIA, 29 March 2016 --- New research conducted by Mercy Corps and IREX finds that community radio provides a critical source of information for the people of Liberia, including in some of the country’s most remote rural areas.

86% of Liberia’s population listen to radio and most prefer community to national radio for news and information. This is because it features local stories, local voices and dialects, the study finds.

ECAP Expands Border Campaigns to Protect against Latest Ebola Outbreak

MONROVIA, March 29 2016 --- In response to the recent outbreak of Ebola in Guinea, Mercy Corps expanded its social mobilisation activities in Liberia's border areas so that communities can be better prepared against possible flare-ups of the devastating virus.

In addition to community engagement activities, such as town hall meetings and house visits, the organisation is also partnering with local radio stations in Bong and Nimba Counties that are promoting vigilance measures, including hand washing; safe burials and timely reporting of suspected cases.