Infection prevention and control guideline for Ebola and Marburg diseases

Overview

This document provides public health advice on multisectoral actions to support the social and economic protection of communities affected by Ebola and Marburg disease outbreaks. These outbreaks pose significant health risks and have wide-ranging social and economic consequences, including disruption of services, livelihoods and social cohesion, as well as stigma and discrimination. The guidance is informed by operational experience, including the 2025 Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and is aligned with WHO’s health emergency preparedness, response and resilience framework.

The publication outlines approaches to community social protection, emphasizing coordinated multisectoral action to mitigate vulnerability and ensure equitable access to essential services. It describes practical steps for identifying vulnerable groups, assessing service disruptions and implementing integrated interventions across sectors such as health, social welfare, education, food security and mental health. The guidance highlights the importance of preparedness, community engagement and continuity of support throughout the emergency cycle, including recovery phases. It aims to strengthen outbreak response by addressing broader social determinants, protecting affected populations and enhancing resilience to future health emergencies.