CDC to tap $107m in emergency funding for Ebola response in DRC and Uganda
Summary
The CDC will use $107 million in emergency funds to help respond to an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda. The outbreak has nearly 1,000 confirmed cases in the DRC and some cases in Uganda, but the overall risk to the world remains low.Key Facts
- The Ebola outbreak in the DRC is the third largest on record, with about 1,000 confirmed cases across 31 health zones.
- Uganda has 31 confirmed Ebola cases in its capital, Kampala.
- The CDC currently has 148 staff working on the response in the DRC and Uganda.
- The virus involved is a rare type called Bundibugyo viral disease, a form of Ebola that causes bleeding and kills 30-50% of infected people.
- Around 198 people have died so far in both countries combined.
- Ebola spreads through direct contact with blood, body fluids, or contaminated surfaces, but not through the air like COVID-19.
- The US and 21 other countries have placed travel restrictions on people from the DRC and Uganda, which some say may hinder outbreak control.
- The CDC’s funding is part of over $900 million pledged internationally, but less than 10% of that money has been delivered so far.
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