Former White House COVID Task Force coordinator on Ebola outbreak and aid funding
KYMA
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Dr. Deborah Birx discussed the current Ebola outbreak in the Congo with Nancy Cordes, comparing it to previous outbreaks and addressing U.S. preparedness. The conversation also touched on aid funding and the risk to the United States.
- Dr. Birx noted that the current Ebola outbreak in the Congo is severe because it went undetected for several weeks, leading to a rapid, albeit delayed, reporting of cases. She emphasized that current data reflects infections from two weeks prior, making it difficult to assess the true trajectory of the outbreak.
- Regarding U.S. preparedness, Birx highlighted that while the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has experienced numerous Ebola outbreaks, the U.S. has strengthened its hospital infrastructure and bio-containment facilities since COVID-19, making it more prepared for potential imported cases. She also mentioned the importance of enforcing travel bans, as demonstrated by the diverted flight from Paris to Detroit.
- The interview addressed concerns about U.S. aid funding for Ebola preparedness in the Congo. Birx indicated that while some local programs may have been terminated, overall U.S. government funding agreements, particularly for global health security and laboratory capacity, appear strong on paper.
- Birx expressed confidence in the U.S.'s ability to respond to infectious disease threats due to a deep bench of experienced personnel across federal agencies. She highlighted the formation of an interagency Ebola response task force and stressed the need to further strengthen the African CDC for early mobilization of protective gear and community work.
