Ecuadorian Hospital Steps Up Vigilance as Flu Cases Surface in Ecuador

May 22, 2009

Ecuadorian Hospital Steps Up Vigilance as Flu Cases Surface in Ecuador

May 22, 2009

Sources: HCJB Global, El Comercio

Ecuador's Ministry of Health said cases of the influenza virus H1N1 have risen to eight just days after a report of the nation's first case. The first incidence of the illness was confirmed on Friday, May 15, by Ecuadorian Health Minister Caroline Chang.

The parents of Adriana Elías, the first person in Ecuador to be diagnosed with the illness, challenged whether their 12-year-old daughter, a student at Colegio Americano in Guayaquil, indeed had the virus. They claimed in a media briefing that she suffered from rinopharynitis, not influenza A (H1N1), commonly referred to as swine flu.

The Health Ministry in Quito responded by apologizing if the family had not received sufficient information on the illness. The ministry's director general, Carmen Laspina, rejected the parents' claims that their child suffered from rinopharynitis. She said testing at Izquieta Pérez (Hospital de Infectología) is reliable, and Chang later reconfirmed the diagnosis of the first case by the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control.

The Health Ministry reported that of the newer flu cases, one came as a result of contact with Elías at Colegio Americano. The ministry on Wednesday confirmed seven new cases (six in Guayaquil and one in Quito) of influenza A (H1N1).

To help prevent its spread, previous guidelines and precautions still apply. For example, when news of the flu outbreak in Mexico broke in late April, HCJB Global Hands' Hospital Vozandes-Quito posted "Cover Your Cough" signs to educate patients and visitors about taking basic steps to help prevent the spread of respiratory infections.

At the nearby Alliance Academy International (AAI) in Quito, teachers have been informed of their responsibility and are aware of their role in working to prevent this disease.

"We will be providing disinfectant gel in each classroom and are keeping close communication with the nurses' office for updates and effective prevention information to be used for our benefit," said AAI Director David Wells.

Hospital Vozandes-Quito continues to serve as a sentinel site in Ecuador for the detection of the H1N1 virus as well as other emerging strains of influenza. This surveillance is taking place in collaboration with the U.S. Navy Tropical Disease Research Laboratory in Lima, Peru. Chang said hospitals have necessary medical supplies and the antiviral drug Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) for treatment of influenza A (H1N1).

Surcos High School in Quito suspended a trip to the Dominican Republic planned for 20 seniors. The decision complied with a May 5 decree by Ecuador's Education Ministry to suspend student trips abroad in an effort to avoid the risk of infection.

The basketball and soccer teams of Cotopaxi Academy in Quito also saw the cancellation of travel plans to Trinidad and Tobago. "It's a measure to safeguard the integrity and well-being of the students," said the school's director, William Johnston.

Director of Church & Donor Partnerships

Position Summary: The Director of Church & Donor Partnerships strengthens Reach Beyond’s ministry by cultivating purposeful, trust-based relationships with churches, pastors, donors, and mission-minded individuals. Serving as a storyteller, encourager, and connector, this role invites the Body of Christ to join in God’s mission to reach those with little or no access to the Gospel.

Working closely with the Mobilization and Development teams, this person helps raise up new workers, strengthen church partnerships, and resource strategic ministry initiatives—always with a posture of discernment, prayer, and long-term stewardship.

Location: Colorado Springs or remote

Employment Type: Full time with employer-paid benefits, including medical coverage, retirement plan, and paid time off.

What This Role Does (Core Responsibilities)

1. Church Partnership Development

This role serves as a relational bridge between Reach Beyond, churches, and missionaries.

The Director:

Maintains strong relationships with existing partner churches and develops 2–4 new church partnerships annually
Shares the vision of Reach Beyond, helping churches understand and engage with the needs of the unreached
Equips churches with resources that support missionaries and foster long-term, healthy partnerships
Collaborates closely with missionaries as they engage their sending and supporting churches

2. Donor Ministry & Stewardship

This role views donor relationships as ministry and discipleship, not transactions.

The Director:

Manages relationships with approximately 12 key donor accounts
Walks alongside donors with discernment—guiding them through education, cultivation, solicitation, and appreciation
Communicates clearly about ministry priorities, impact opportunities, and project funding goals
Maintains accurate, timely records in the donor management system to ensure thoughtful follow-up and accountability

3. Representation & Engagement

This role serves as a public voice and relational presence for Reach Beyond.

The Director:

Represents Reach Beyond at 3–5 regional or national events annually, with intentional follow-up for every connection
Communicates the story of God’s work in Reach Beyond through stage presentations, small groups, and media opportunities
Participates fully in staff meetings, chapels, retreats, and organizational prayer rhythms

4. Reporting, Collaboration & Administration

This role balances relational ministry with faithful stewardship and teamwork.

The Director:

Provides quarterly written reports tracking progress toward mobilization and development goals
Works closely with the Mobilization and Development Directors to align efforts and communicate organizational priorities
Upholds organizational policies and maintains healthy, proactive communication across teams

You must be authorized to work in the United States.

We participate in the federal E-Verify program. See more information at:

https://reachbeyond.org/e-verify-right-to-work.pdf
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Why Join Reach Beyond? At Reach Beyond, we cultivate a culture rooted in relationship, collaboration, and dependence on God. Our mission is to see unreached people transformed in Christ through media, healthcare, and community development. As the Director of Church & Donor Partnerships, you’ll play a vital role in advancing God's mission and have the opportunity to grow personally and professionally while making a lasting global impact.

All applicants must be able to sign the Reach Beyond Statement of Faith.

Apply Now: Join us in fulfilling God’s calling to bring hope and transformation to the unreached. Complete the application here. Contact [email protected] if you have questions.