DRC improves Ebola testing capacity but struggles to keep pace with outbreak spread

Summary

The Democratic Republic of Congo has improved its Ebola testing capacity by establishing two testing facilities near the epicenter of the outbreak, using GeneXpert machines that automate viral DNA detection. However, despite these improvements, testing capacity remains insufficient to keep pace with the rapidly expanding disease. Health officials began investigating possible cases in mid-April, with the first samples tested on April 30th. The article highlights the gap between improved infrastructure and the overwhelming demands of a fast-spreading outbreak.