Africa’s ‘unprecedented’ Ebola outbreak could reach UK, says top health official

Dr. Jean Kaseya, director general of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has warned that the unprecedented Ebola outbreak could spread to the UK and other countries due to inadequate funding. As the outbreak has reached 10,000 cases, with almost 5,000 deaths, Kaseya emphasized the urgency for increased preparedness and treatment capabilities. He compared the current Ebola situation to the Covid pandemic, stressing the need for all countries to take appropriate measures, as no nation is immune.

Kaseya noted that this is the first time three African regions have been affected by the Ebola outbreak, making it the largest and deadliest in the Democratic Republic of the Congo's history. The Bundibugyo virus, responsible for the current outbreak, has no approved treatment, though vaccine trials are underway. He highlighted the need for governments to screen and test individuals entering from affected regions and called for a "corridor of peace" in conflict areas to facilitate response efforts.

Despite the global pledge of $3 billion, more than $2 billion remains outstanding, with African countries committing $120 million. Kaseya stressed the urgency of securing this funding to prevent further spread and potential trillions of dollars in additional costs.