health
Vaccine to tackle Ebola outbreak will take six to nine months, says WHO
The response to the current wave of the disease, which has caused 139 deaths in central Africa to date, has been hampered by security concerns
TL;DR
- The Bundibugyo virus outbreak has 600 suspected cases and 139 deaths in central Africa.
- The most promising vaccine is 6-9 months away from availability.
- Security issues in Ituri province, displacement of over 100,000 people, and health workers fleeing complicate detection.
- Similar symptoms to malaria and typhoid can delay Ebola diagnosis.
- The WHO disputes criticism about delayed declaration, citing understanding of international health regulations.
- An alternative vaccine platform could be ready for clinical trials in 2-3 months, but efficacy data is pending.
- Access issues, including cancelled flights, are hampering supply delivery to Ituri province.