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Epidemics can have massive social ramifications where prohibitions are imposed on travel, socio-cultural events and schooling.

Although Sierra Leone is not yet officially ebola-free, there are significant improvements. Economic recovery discussions have also started. Care needs to be taken to ensure broader societal benefit.

In the 50 years following the discovery of the Marburg virus there have only been 12 known outbreaks.

During almost all outbreaks, women provide the majority of care to the ill voluntarily in their homes at great risk and cost to themselves.

A gender perspective on public health is essential to human rights and safety in crisis situations.

When done properly, a simulation exercise is a useful tool for evaluating preparedness for a public health emergency.

African media also emphasise the west as superior and Africa as inferior.

Special steps need to be taken to blunt the impact of school closures, particuarly on girls.

Lockdown measures may stop the spread of the virus. But they can also lead to a larger and more protracted public health crisis in the form of deprivation and hunger.

Unless African governments put their money where their mouths are, innovative advances from young scientists on the continent will be stifled.