Blog Post

HOPE worldwide Global Disaster Update – Coronavirus (2019-nCoV)

HOPE worldwide • Jan 30, 2020

We ask you to join us in prayer for those affected by the recent outbreak of the Coronavirus...

Brothers and Sisters,

We ask you to join us in prayer for those affected by the recent outbreak of the coronavirus and the healthcare professionals who are treating affected people. As of January 29, 2020, the World Health Organization has confirmed 6,065 cases of the infection and an additional 9,239 cases are suspected. One hundred thirty-two people have died from the virus and cases are confirmed in 15 countries.

The HOPE worldwide global office is encouraging everyone to take simple and common precautions to help prevent the spread of any disease. Please visit the following links for detailed information about the current outbreak.

Please visit the following links for detailed information about the current outbreak.



HOPE worldwide is humbled to partner with the International Churches of Christ, which are known to have some of the most loving and affectionate people in the world! Disciples like to hug, some disciples kiss, and all love to be close. However, since previous coronavirus outbreaks have been spread via human-to-human contact, it is possible that the current iteration is similarly passed on.

Therefore, HOPE worldwide wants to remind you to consider some important safety tips in the wake of the current outbreak of the coronavirus (2019-nCoV).

Regular Precautions (from the WHO and CDC)


  • Wash your hands with soap and water frequently, and especially after contact with someone who may be ill.
  • Avoid close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections.
  • Avoid unprotected contact with farm or wild animals.
  • People with symptoms of acute respiratory infections should practice cough etiquette (maintain distance, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, and wash hands).
  • People who have a fever and cough should worship from home and remain at home until 24 hours after the last fever. Also, they should contact their primary care provider if they are concerned that they may have been exposed to someone who has been exposed to someone (or has traveled) from Wuhan, China. (This will be helpful not only with the coronavirus but also with the rampant influenza that is going around the US and other countries).
  • Within healthcare facilities, enhance standard infection prevention and control practices in hospitals, especially in emergency departments.
  • The CDC has issued a warning notice to “avoid nonessential travel” to China.
  • If you have traveled recently to China, and in particular to the Wuhan province, and are experiencing cold/flu symptoms, please see your healthcare professional.

Unique Precautions in the Church Meeting Environment

  • You are loved! Perhaps take a small break from hugging in the church environment.
  • Similarly, avoid holding hands during singing and prayer.
  • Communion services should include sealed and individual cups for the juice and bread offered during that sacred time.
  • Ushers should frequently wash their hands and should wear gloves when passing out communion trays.
  • Children’s programs should remind parents that if they have a sick child to perhaps stay home until the child gets better!
  • If you are sick, stay home! Numerous churches around the world stream their services.

For more information about HOPE worldwide ’s Global Disaster Response efforts contact:

Dave Tomlinson, Director Global Disaster Response
dave.tomlinson@hopeww.org

Charles Ham, Global Disaster Advisor
charles.ham@hopeww.org

Paul Frugé II, Sr Director, Communications
paul.fruge@hopeww.org


Information and recommendations were gleaned from the WHO and CDC, along with contributions from Dr. Kevin Broyles, HOPE worldwide Global Health Advisor; Dr. Marc Aguirre, HOPE worldwide Africa; and Angelo Damiano, HOPE worldwide Security Consultant.

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PRESS RELEASE June 27, 2023 HOPE worldwide , a leading non-profit organization dedicated to providing sustainable, high-impact, community-based services, including critical healthcare services, disaster relief, and education, to underserved communities globally, is proud to announce the recognition received by the Lawes Road Clinic in Papua New Guinea during a recent visit by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken . This visit highlighted the impactful work carried out by HOPE worldwide global network member, HOPE worldwide Papua New Guinea (PNG), in collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) as part of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the U.S. government’s largest effort to combat HIV. During his visit to Papua New Guinea, Secretary Blinken had the opportunity to tour HOPE worldwide PNG’s Lawes Road Clinic, which is led by HOPE worldwide PNG Country Director Priscilla Sine Mal, and witness firsthand the incredible efforts undertaken by the dedicated team. The clinic's commitment to improving the lives of the local community in various areas, including HIV prevention and treatment, and treatment for victims of violence against women deeply impressed Secretary Blinken. In his remarks, Secretary Blinken expressed his admiration for the clinic's work, stating, "This was a real privilege to be here at the Lawes Road clinic where quite literally our partners are saving lives, changing lives, every single day." The visit showcased the significant impact of HOPE worldwide Papua New Guinea’s clinic on the region, highlighting its vital role in providing essential healthcare services to those most in need and who often have the most difficult time getting treatment, in part due to the social stigma often associated with their conditions. The Lawes Road Clinic operates under the auspices of the Presidential Emergency Plan For HIV/AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), funded through USAID and implemented in collaboration with FHI 360 and HOPE worldwide . The clinic has been instrumental in providing critical care, support, and testing for HIV/AIDS patients in Papua New Guinea, contributing to the nationwide efforts to combat the disease. This year, PEPFAR celebrates its 20th anniversary, and its 17th year of implementation in Papua New Guinea. HOPE worldwide is honored by the recognition bestowed upon HOPE worldwide Papua New Guinea and the Lawes Road Clinic by Secretary Blinken and remains committed to its mission of transforming communities and improving lives through local, volunteer-based initiatives. With the continuous support of partners like USAID and the unwavering dedication of its teams on the ground, HOPE worldwide and its global network of members like HOPE worldwide PNG strive to create a healthier, more resilient future for all.
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