Security Council gravely concerned by Ebola outbreak in DR Congo, demands immediate end to violence hampering response.

The UN Security Council on Friday expressed grave concern about the current Ebola virus outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and stressed the urgency of broad cooperation in the response, as 'the disease could spread rapidly, including to neighbouring countries, possibly having serious humanitarian consequences and impacting regional stability.'

In a statement presented by Jacek Czaputowicz, Foreign Minister of Poland, which holds the Council's presidency for the month of August, the 15-member body emphasized the need for continued cooperation and coordination with the DRC Government to address the Ebola outbreak, as well as with the States in the region.

Noting 'the challenging operating environment', the Council reiterated its appreciation for the efforts of the Government, the World Health Organization (WHO) and other UN agencies, the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), the African Union, humanitarian organizations, international donors and all supporting the response to contain the disease and treat Ebola patients.

The Council also stressed the need for Government and civil society in affected and at-risk countries 'to work urgently with relevant partners' to improve their preparedness for preventing, detecting and responding to possible cases, as well as to implement optimal vaccine strategies that have maximum impact on curtailing the outbreak.

Reiterating their serious concern regarding the security situation in the areas affected by the Ebola outbreak, particularly attacks on humanitarian and medical personnel exclusively engaged in medical duties, 'which is severely hampering the response efforts and facilitating the spread of the virus in the DRC and...