Scientists and researchers are racing to develop vaccines and treatments for the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, which is spreading across the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda. No vaccine or treatment currently exists for this strain, but three vaccine developers were awarded $60 million (£45 million) in emergency funding this week to accelerate efforts.
The funding, announced by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), aims to support the development of vaccines and other countermeasures. However, security issues in the affected region of the DRC, where conflict has displaced tens of thousands, have hindered the setup of clinical trials. Militias operate in the area, and some Ebola treatment centres have been attacked.
Despite these challenges, researchers say they are ready to begin trials as soon as conditions allow. 'Every day counts in the race against this deadly disease,' said Dr Richard Hatchett, chief executive of CEPI. The vaccines are part of a broader global effort that also includes developing treatments and preventative measures.
