The Bermuda Red Cross has launched a cash appeal to support the communities affected by the Ebola outbreak.

The disease has claimed at least 2,917 lives across West Africa, including 597 deaths in Sierra Leone.

Red Cross is working across all countries affected by Ebola including Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Nigeria and Senegal.

In Sierra Leone, Red Cross staff and volunteers are working tirelessly to fight Ebola and raise awareness of the disease.

A new Ebola treatment centre has just been opened by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies on the outskirts of Kenema city, one of the epicentres of the outbreak in Sierra Leone.

A statement released by the Bermuda Red Cross said: “The centre can accommodate 60 patients and is staffed by 19 international workers and 80 national employees.

Support from donors has enabled the Red Cross to open the centre, which is due to operate for one year.

“However, there is currently not enough funding to ensure it stays open for one year.

“Additional funds are also required to support the deployment of more healthcare workers, as well as the tools, supplies and equipment needed to carry out treatment.”

Donations can be made by direct deposit into this Bank of Butterfield account: 20-006-060-365472-200 or call the Bermuda Red Cross on 236-8253. Members of the public can also make donations by mail by writing to Bermuda Red Cross, Ebola Outbreak Appeal Fund, Charleswood, 9 Berry Hill Road, Paget DV 03.