This briefing note provides information to policy makers and programme managers on how to deliver critical health services for safe delivery and immediate newborn care to prevent increased maternal and newborn mortality due to preventable causes within the context of the current Ebola outbreak in West Africa.
In the affected countries, health systems are now fragmented, significantly reducing access to routine health services, in particular essential maternal and newborn care. The interventions summarized in this guide are intended to lower the risk of delivery and post-partum complications for both the mother and the newborn, particularly the risk of postpartum haemorrhage and infections, and improve the immediate care of premature babies. The recommendations are also intended to minimize the exposure of health care providers to blood and bodily fluids that could transmit Ebola.
This October 2014 guide will be constantly reviewed and updated as the Ebola outbreak continues to evolve.