CDC Warns Congo Ebola May Reach 20,000 Cases

The new outbreak is caused by a rare type of the virus called Bundibugyo. In May, the World Health Organization (WHO) called it a global health emergency. Ebola spreads when people touch body fluids like blood, vomit or saliva. There is no approved vaccine or treatment, and 30–50% of patients die. War in eastern DRC has forced many people from their homes, which makes the response harder.

Other countries are getting ready. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has told National Health Service (NHS) hospitals to store protective equipment and isolate patients who came from affected areas in the last 21 days. Posters are appearing at major UK airports and train stations. The United States has banned non-citizens who recently visited Congo, Uganda or South Sudan. Officials note that the CDC's 2014 prediction was much too high, but warn that careful isolation is still essential.