Frontline health workers in the Democratic Republic of Congo are facing anger and mistrust from local communities as they respond to a new Ebola outbreak. Experts said this at an international media briefing organised by the Global Virus Network on Wednesday 10 June. As of 11 June the DRC had 635 confirmed cases and 127 deaths.
Speakers said communities are upset because responders focus only on Ebola and do not help with other problems. They want support for malaria, HIV, cholera and malnutrition. WHO acting officials said the response must also include WASH, security, malaria, measles and mpox.
Experts added that local response capacity is weak in some areas. Responders are using local languages and working with religious and traditional leaders to rebuild trust.
Difficult words
- frontline — workers who meet people first in crises
- mistrust — feeling of not trusting someone or something
- outbreak — sudden start of many disease cases
- responder — person or group who helps in emergenciesresponders
- malnutrition — serious lack of needed food and nutrients
- capacity — ability of people or systems to do things
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What help do communities want besides Ebola support?
- What could health workers do to build trust in local communities?
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