CNN: What keeps us from eradicating this deadly, contagious disease?
Mary Ann Peters, chief executive officer of The Carter Center

“…Sadly, the DRC is not the only place where persistent and brutal conflicts hobble campaigns to fight epidemics, eliminate disease, and deliver basic health care. … If we are to defeat Ebola and other diseases that threaten global health security, we must take steps to resolve the conflicts that create a favorable environment for the spread of disease. … We need to allocate meaningful resources to identifying and preventing conflict — because an ounce of prevention is worth much more than a pound of cure. We must address the root causes of the persistent conflicts of this century, like those in the DRC, South Sudan, and Mali, with ideas, funding, and political will. In the short term, we need to find ways to provide greater security to health workers who risk their lives in conflict zones. Investing in peace as part of a global health security strategy will complement investments in research and help ensure a healthier and safer world for all” (9/20).