Global response to Ebola crisis "has succeeded"

The global response to the Ebola crisis in West Africa has succeeded in turning the crisis around, according to the Head of the UN Ebola mission, UNMEER.

Close to 7000 people have died from the disease mainly in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

The UNMEER chief, Anthony Banbury, described the UN's response over the last 60 days as "extremely successful" thanks to a collaborative international effort.

Speaking in Freetown, Sierra Leone alongside Mr Banbury, David Nabarro, the UN System Coordinator for Ebola Virus Disease, said the response should be adjusted as the outbreak evolves.

“Where intensity of transmission is high, the emphasis is on community mobilization, treatment centres, safe burials, and essential services for those in need. All of which are absolutely necessary when the outbreak is ahead of the response.” (0'17")

Mr Nabarro added that as the response catches up with the outbreak, it is becoming what he called "more and more nimble and flexible", adapting to the needs of Ebola victims.

Stephanie Coutrix, United Nations.

Duration:  1’08″

LISTEN / DOWNLOAD