Samaritan's Purse Launches New Ebola Treatment Center in Congo

Samaritan's Purse, a Christian aid group, is on the brink of opening a 50-bed Ebola treatment center in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This announcement comes in response to the recent outbreak in the region, which the World Health Organization has labeled a public health emergency of international concern due to its lack of approved vaccines or treatments.

Franklin Graham, President of Samaritan's Purse, detailed their efforts in securing better access to resources and ensuring the safety of medics amidst security challenges and violent protests in the region. The organization plans to work closely with local churches, educating communities and distributing informative leaflets to build trust.

Essential materials for the center, such as generators and air conditioning units, are on schedule to arrive in Ituri by Wednesday. Graham noted the complexity of logistics, equating the setup to building a small town, as they prepare to provide crucial healthcare support during the outbreak.

(With inputs from agencies.)