Meeting on developing plans to strengthen the blood systems in Ebola-affected countries

Overview

The prolonged and unprecedented outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD) and the initiation of experimental therapies using convalescent whole blood or plasma for treating people suffering from Ebola in West Africa has highlighted the limited capacities of the national blood systems of Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, the three countries overwhelmingly affected by the 2014-2015 epidemic.

The intention of the 25-27 February meeting was to devise strategies for developing effective and sustainable blood transfusion services in the three countries. In addition, there is a need to expand interest in, and assessment of, convalescent-based Ebola treatment. Sufficient funding and expertise must be provided, and the current situation offers the potential for that goal to be achieved.