Mercy Corps

Ebola outbreaks in Congo are exacerbated by distrust in health systems, leading victims to seek traditional healers instead of hospitals. The current outbreak, caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus, has killed at least 181 people, with misinformation and armed conflict complicating containment efforts.

Africa's Ebola outbreaks are complicated by victims preferring traditional healers over hospitals, leading to distrust in health workers and misinformation. The current outbreak in Congo, caused by the Bundibugyo virus with no approved treatments, has killed at least 181 people and prompted a WHO-declared public health emergency.

Congo is experiencing its 17th Ebola outbreak since 1976, driven by the rare Bundibugyo virus. Distrust of health workers and reliance on traditional healers have hindered containment efforts, leading to 181 deaths. The World Health Organization declared the outbreak a public health emergency, and the U.S. imposed travel restrictions.

An Ebola outbreak in Congo's Bundibugyo region has led to 381 confirmed cases and 63 deaths, with local skepticism and misinformation hindering containment efforts. A radio station in Bunia is using daily programs to combat rumors and provide health updates, addressing distrust fueled by claims of Western conspiracies and financial exploitation.

An Ebola outbreak in Congo's Ituri province has led to skepticism and attacks on health workers, with 363 confirmed cases and 62 deaths as of May. A local radio station, Radio Télévision Mont Bleu, is using daily programs and jingles to combat misinformation and educate residents about the Bundibugyo type of Ebola, which has no approved vaccine or treatment.

Palestinian programmer Tarik Zaeem and others in Gaza continue to work as digital freelancers despite the challenges of war and blockade, providing a vital source of income and escape. The digital sector has grown steadily, with thousands of Palestinians registered on platforms like Freelancer.com and Upwork. This growth is seen as a key solution to the unemployment problem in Gaza.

The Iran war will worsen food insecurity in fragile nations, according to Mercy Corps. The aid organization warns of devastating consequences for nations on the brink of a humanitarian crisis. Kate Phillips-Barrasso discusses the issue.

Kabul faces a severe water crisis as residents struggle to access clean water, with Taliban policies and climate change exacerbating the situation. Groundwater levels have dropped dramatically, forcing communities to rely on costly water trucks and contaminated sources. A Mercy Corps report warns of an impending humanitarian disaster without major policy changes.