The United Kingdom has committed up to £20 million in new funding to contain the deadly Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This is as cross-government officials warn that global health threats require an urgent global response.
UK redirects Ebola outbreak funding to Ituri’s crisis-hit zones
Most confirmed cases have emerged in the Ituri region of eastern DRC, an area already grappling with severe humanitarian and security challenges. The fresh funding will enable the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations, and other international and NGO partners to respond rapidly.
Specifically, the money will strengthen disease surveillance and support frontline health workers. This improves infection prevention and control, and helps affected communities access lifesaving care.
UK humanitarian partners have already stepped up efforts to contain the outbreak. Through the Strategic Assistance for Emergency Response (SAFER) consortium, the UK is redirecting funds to improve water and hygiene systems.
These measures ensure that frontline responders and local communities receive vital personal protective equipment and reinforce Ebola containment measures.
The UK is also refocusing efforts to protect maternity facilities and support civil society organisations. Authorities aim to strengthen prevention and control while mitigating the risk of rising birth complications during the outbreak.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care chaired a cross-government meeting to coordinate the UK’s response. Discussions included how to protect British nationals overseas and work closely with international partners.
“This outbreak is a stark reminder that global health threats require a global response. The UK is working hand-in-hand with partners – boosting much needed funding but also sharing our technical expertise to contain the outbreak, protect our security, and support those most at risk,” Cooper said.
UKHSA activates Returning Workers Scheme and maintains low UK risk
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has begun assessing routes by which travellers enter the UK from affected countries. It will work alongside the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.
Additionally, the UK has also updated its travel advice. It further warns against all but essential travel to some parts of the DRC.
UKHSA has additionally activated the Returning Workers Scheme. This is a programme designed to protect and monitor the health of individuals travelling from the UK to affected areas for work.
Organisations deploying workers to Ebola-affected regions must register those workers with the scheme.
Dr Mike Reynolds, Incident Director at UKHSA, sought to reassure the British public.
“While the current outbreak of Ebola affecting the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda is serious, the risk it poses to the UK population is low,” Reynolds said.
He added that the UK Public Health Rapid Support Team stands ready to activate should the DRC or Ugandan government, WHO, or other response partners request support on the ground.
Recently, a former UK government minister has warned that the crisis should serve as a wake-up call over the dangers of cutting British and American aid.