The recent Ebola outbreak in West Africa is unquestionably one of the worst crises in recent history. As the death toll continues to climb another number is rising as well: the cost. As reported by Dr. David Nabarro, the United Nations system coordinator for the epidemic, the cost of Ebola is $600 million, that’s more than the entire GDP of Chile and Israel combined. The number has risen by $529 million since July 31. “We are not in a position where we can afford to lose a day, because this outbreak is currently moving ahead of efforts to control it,” Nabarro said. Clearly the raging epidemic can only be subdued by money but with a lack of manpower, supplies, not to mention flight access, it will take a lot more than $600 million for the unstoppable disease to be conquered.
Contributor: Phoebe Roe