WASHINGTON (October 16, 2018) -- On Wednesday, the World Health Organization will convene an emergency committee meeting to determine if the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) under the International Health Regulations.

Two Georgetown University Medical Center experts in infectious disease and global health are available to comment on the outbreak and the decision of the committee. 

Julie Fischer, PhD, is associate research professor with the department of microbiology and a member of the Center for Global Health Science and Security at Georgetown University Medical Center. She focuses on research and tools to strengthen global capacities for public health preparedness and response. She has also worked on issues related to medical emergency preparedness, and the consequences of biological, chemical, and radiological exposures during military service. Fisher is a microbiologist by training and an expert in infectious diseases. (Fischer is available Tuesday and Wednesday morning).

Rebecca Katz, PhD, MPH, is director of the Center for Global Health Science and Security at Georgetown University Medical Center. For more than a decade, Katz has worked to help design systems and implement policies to facilitate a coordinated response to potential microbial outbreaks and pandemics in 22 countries — many low-resourced and developing. She is an expert on the World Health Organization and its International Health Regulations, and can comment on the international response to situations like Ebola. (Katz is available Tuesday and Wednesday morning).

To arrange an interview with either, please contact Karen Teber at [email protected]

Additional experts on Ebola at Georgetown University can be found here.

About Georgetown University Medical Center
 Georgetown University Medical Center (GUMC) is an internationally recognized academic medical center with a three-part mission of research, teaching and patient care (through MedStar Health). GUMC’s mission is carried out with a strong emphasis on public service and a dedication to the Catholic, Jesuit principle of cura personalis -- or “care of the whole person.” The Medical Center includes the School of Medicine and the School of Nursing & Health Studies, both nationally ranked; Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, designated as a comprehensive cancer center by the National Cancer Institute; and the Biomedical Graduate Research Organization, which accounts for the majority of externally funded research at GUMC including a Clinical and Translational Science Award from the National Institutes of Health. Connect with GUMC on Facebook (Facebook.com/GUMCUpdate), Twitter (@gumedcenter). Connect with Georgetown University School of Medicine on Facebook (Facebook.com/somgeorgetown), Twitter (@gumedicine) and Instagram (@georgetownmedicine).

MEDIA CONTACT
Register for reporter access to contact details