As WHO sounds alarm over Ebola in DRC, what can be learned from previous outbreaks?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns about an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), specifically involving the Bundibugyo variant. Factors such as conflict, mistrust, and delayed detection may hinder the response to this emergency. In areas affected by Ebola, chlorine is commonly used for disinfection, with surfaces sprayed and hands washed in a 0.05% solution effective against the virus. Infrared handheld thermometers are employed at airports and border crossings to check temperatures, and any signs of fever result in restricted passage. Contact-tracing teams are actively working in the countryside.