Today the UK launched the Multi-Hazard Research Network (MHRN). Led by the Institute of Development Studies, it brings together experts from the UK and international partners to strengthen prevention, preparedness and response to emerging infectious disease outbreaks and other crises, including the current Ebola outbreak in DRC and Uganda.
The network will give decision-makers rapid access to practical evidence and specialist expertise during emergencies, helping them prepare better, analyse risks more effectively and respond faster across the region.
Its Rapid Response Unit is already supporting the ongoing response with specialist advice, including lessons from past outbreaks, insight into the local context and modelling of how the outbreak could develop.
The UK is a science superpower – home to world leading researchers, scientists and institutions. We’re harnessing that expertise, bringing together expert research, vital skills and regional knowledge to improve how the world responds to this outbreak and better prepares for others in the future.
We know that early action is vital to save lives. Deadly diseases like Ebola do not stop at borders, so we must work to stop these outbreaks at source.
