Thread by @DrTedros

Today the @WHO Emergency Committee recommended that I declare the #Ebola outbreak in #DRC a public health emergency of international concern. I have accepted that advice. Now it's time for the international community to show solidarity with the people of DRC, not to isolate them.

I emphasize that @WHO does not recommend any restrictions on travel or trade, which rather than stopping #Ebola, can actually hamper the fight. We call on all countries, companies and individuals to support #DRC by respecting those recommendations.

A public health emergency of international concern is not for fundraising, it’s for preventing the spread of disease. @WHO is not aware of any donor that has withheld funding because the emergency had not been declared. But if that was the excuse, it can no longer be used.

I commend the Government of #DRC for its commitment and cooperation, and to the President who has visited the affected area, and has formed an inter-ministerial committee to ensure the whole government is focused on the #Ebola response.

I honour the hundreds of #Ebola responders from the #DRC government, partners and our staff, who as we speak are putting themselves in harm’s way to serve others. More than ever, they need our support to end this outbreak.