Photo: Martial Trezzini / EPA / TASS
This virus is not just a local emergency, but a warning of just how vulnerable the global healthcare system has become, according to the Financial Times.
“The outbreak emerged at the juncture of the new global healthcare system,” said Thomas Bolliki, director of the global health program at the Council on Foreign Relations. “The medical community is prepared for such threats, but political and public support has weakened in the wake of COVID-19.”
The Financial Times notes that the U.S. role in global health is shrinking, while European countries are cutting aid. Against this backdrop, international institutions are losing stability.
The situation is exacerbated by the virus itself. The outbreak is caused by a rare strain of Ebola—Bundibugyo. It has been recorded only twice, and standard vaccines and tests against it are of limited effectiveness.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called the situation a “catastrophic convergence of disease and conflict.” This refers to the Ituri province, where the outbreak is unfolding against a backdrop of armed conflict.
According to the WHO, 695 cases and 138 deaths have been reported, but the actual numbers may be higher. The fatality rate is estimated at 30–50%.
The virus has already spread beyond the country’s borders: cases have been reported in Uganda, and imported infections have been detected in the UAE and Germany. One patient was transported from the U.S. to Europe for treatment.
The WHO has declared a public health emergency of international concern, but emphasizes that the risk of global spread remains low. Nevertheless, countries are stepping up surveillance.
