The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, its highest-level alert.
Driven by the rare Bundibugyo strain, which has no approved vaccine or targeted treatment, the outbreak has led to hundreds of suspected cases and deaths, with confirmed cross-border spread into Uganda and concern about further regional transmission. WHO has warned the situation may be larger than reported and is urging stronger surveillance, coordination, and preparedness.
The call will provide an opportunity for members to hear from global experts, connect, share insights, and consider how Catholic health ministries can respond in support of vulnerable communities during this evolving public health emergency.
Speakers
Nkatha Njeru, CEO
African Christian Health Association Platform
Meredith Stakem, Health Technical Advisor
CRS
Meredith supported the West Africa Ebola outbreak response in 2014-2016 and is currently working with CRS teams in DRC and Uganda to mount a response.
Christian Acemah, Executive Secretary
Uganda National Academy of Sciences
Erica Smith, President
Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach
Sincerely,
Bruce Compton
Senior Director, Global Health
