WHO & Africa CDC Launch Comprehensive $319M Ebola Response Plan Amid DRC Outbreak BODY: Kampala, Uganda – The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) have jointly announced a robust six-month Ebola response plan, valued at $319 million, in response to the escalating outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The plan, which spans across all 55 African Union member states, allocates $265 million for immediate response efforts in the DRC and Uganda, with an additional $54 million dedicated to enhancing preparedness in 10 high-risk countries.
In the DRC, efforts to combat the Bundibugyo virus, a rare strain of Ebola, are being intensified.
In Ituri, the epicenter of the outbreak, health workers are deploying disinfectants in public markets, and hand — washing has become mandatory in some churches. Despite these measures, authorities are encountering resistance from parts of the population, with violent incidents targeting healthcare facilities treating Ebola patients.
The absence of a vaccine for the Bundibugyo virus complicates the response, as existing Ebola vaccines are ineffective against it.
The presence of ongoing conflict in the affected areas adds further challenges to containment efforts.
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has initiated a response to safeguard vulnerable communities and support an overburdened health system.
The organization has underscored the importance of infection prevention and control efforts. WHO Director-General has sounded the alarm for urgent action and pandemic preparedness, highlighting the recent Ebola and hantavirus outbreaks as evidence of the world’s continued vulnerability to rapidly spreading infectious diseases.
The Director — General’s appeal comes as Ugandan authorities confirmed three new cases of the Bundibugyo strain, reinforcing the need for a coordinated international response.
The Africa CDC is spearheading a continental response, emphasizing cross — border collaboration and regional health security.
The outbreak’s location, marked by high population mobility, insecurity, and extensive cross-border connectivity, adds layers of complexity to preventing further spread.
As the DRC Ebola outbreak continues to unfold, the WHO, Africa CDC, and international health organizations are working diligently to contain the virus and alleviate its impact on affected communities.
The $319 million response plan signifies a significant commitment to combating this deadly disease, yet the challenges ahead remain substantial.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: Sarah Miansoni
