Ebola’s Impact on the Democratic Republic of Congo

Ebola has been a persistent threat worldwide for many years. No country has experienced more outbreaks than the Democratic Republic of Congo. The nation is currently dealing with its latest outbreak. Since the virus was identified in the 1970s, Congo has faced 17 outbreaks. The virus was named after a river in the northern part of the country. This current outbreak ranks among the deadliest due to late detection.

Declan Walsh, the chief Africa correspondent, is on the ground in Congo. He spent time in an Ebola ward, observing health workers struggling. These workers lack resources and receive minimal outside support. I discussed his experiences with him.

A Race Against Time in Congo

Declan, you are at the heart of the current Ebola crisis. Can you describe your location and the situation?

I’m in Bunia, the capital of Ituri Province in Congo. My reporting has taken me to Mongbwalu, a town located 50 miles to the north. It is believed this outbreak originated here.

Driving to Mongbwalu reveals much about the outbreak. Soldiers and checkpoints line the route, a result of longstanding ethnic violence in the area. The region is also a hub for gold mining, attracting thousands of migrant workers from across Congo. These factors create a perfect environment for a virus to spread.