The sudden acceleration in tackling the Ebola epidemic posts a sense of relief, particularly since it is a late starter. The arrival of 1,600 doses of a vaccine for testing in Geneva, the first stop on their way to West Africa, attests to the fast-track approach and the start of definitive global action to tackle Ebola in its cradle. As of now, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has identified two Ebola vaccines as having promising results and both are being developed to meet the target of treatment from January 2015. Other Ebola vaccine trials are under way in Germany, Gabon and Kenya.
Add to this the support of international giants like Johnson & Johnson, which will allocate $200 million (Dh735.6 million) and Europe’s commitment of $250 million towards the development of new Ebola vaccines and it is clear that the world has read the writing on the wall. But given the scale of the problem, more needs to be done. This momentum needs acceleration through more funds because a lack of it will be the single biggest deal breaker.
Development of vaccines and in required quantities is at the heart of any epidemic control and the world must attend to both priorities. But it can only can do so effectively if the international community steps up to the cause. However, for the thousands of people in the affected countries of West Africa cowering under its threat every hour, this fast-track approach cannot come fast enough. Their hopes are pinned on these vaccines to deliver them to safety and life.
