On the 100th day since the first recorded case in May, the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has killed more than 2,000 people, making it the deadliest on record for the country.
In a video explainer, The Guardian’s global health correspondent Kat Lay interviewed Yap Boum II of CDC Africa to explore the factors that have hampered response efforts and to outline the measures being deployed to control the epidemic. Boum discussed the complex operational and public health challenges faced by teams working on the ground and described ongoing efforts to stem transmission.
Background
The outbreak’s death toll and duration have prompted heightened international concern. Health authorities and partners have mobilised to respond, and the conversation between Lay and Boum seeks to clarify why the epidemic has been difficult to contain and what strategies are being implemented to reduce further loss of life.
Coverage and response
The video explainer presents an on-the-ground perspective of the response, including assessments from public health officials. It aims to give audiences a clearer sense of the obstacles facing frontline workers and the steps being taken to try to limit the outbreak’s reach.
As the situation continues to evolve, health agencies say sustained attention and resources will be needed to support containment efforts and prevent further escalation.