The Documentary Podcast The Documentary Podcast

West Africa's Ebola outbreak: 10 years on

Oct 1, 2026 · 26m

Summary

Journalist Tulip Mazumdar explores the 2026 Ebola outbreak in the DRC, contrasting it with the 2014 West Africa crisis. The episode features survivors and health workers discussing the impact of misinformation, the evolution of community-led burial practices, and the critical role of trust in containing the virus. Experts analyze how improved global health infrastructure and faster WHO responses have changed the landscape, while also highlighting ongoing challenges like funding shortfalls and political barriers to international cooperation.

Topics discussed

Sponsors and introduction 2026 DRC outbreak and return to West Africa Reporting from the 2014 epicenter in Guinea Survivor stories and the human cost Misinformation and the Samuka family tragedy WHO response criticism and global fear Community efforts and safe burial practices Nurse Joyce's journey and clinic improvements DRC conditions and healthcare worker risks Speed of the 2026 outbreak and structural changes Building trust and African-led response WHO evolution and vaccine development Funding shortfalls and global aid cuts Future preparedness and political challenges Daniel's dream and closing credits
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