The Guardian view on tackling Ebola: pathogens aren’t the only things that kill | Editorial
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is experiencing its 17th Ebola outbreak, which has been declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organization. The outbreak has resulted in 139 suspected deaths and nearly 600 suspected cases, primarily in the northeastern provinces. Ongoing conflict and reduced aid are complicating efforts to control the virus and provide necessary healthcare to affected communities.
- ▪The DRC has faced Ebola outbreaks 16 times since the virus was discovered in 1976.
- ▪The current outbreak has been linked to the Bundibugyo virus, which is believed to kill around a third of those infected.
- ▪Years of armed conflict in eastern DRC have hindered access to healthcare and increased distrust among communities.
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Red Cross workers arrive at a health centre to transport people who died of Ebola in Rwampara, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, on 20 May. Photograph: Moses Sawasawa/APView image in fullscreenRed Cross workers arrive at a health centre to transport people who died of Ebola in Rwampara, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, on 20 May. Photograph: Moses Sawasawa/APOpinionEbolaThe Guardian view on tackling Ebola: pathogens aren’t the only things that killEditorialConflict and aid cuts are hampering the fight against an outbreak of the deadly virus centred in the Democratic Republic of the CongoWed 20 May 2026 13.51 EDTLast modified on Wed 20 May 2026 14.01 EDTShareThe Democratic Republic of the Congo has faced the deadly threat of Ebola 16 times since the virus was discovered there in…
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