The current Ebola outbreak was first reported in March 2014 in Guinea, after which it has spread rapidly in several West African countries, including Liberia, Sierra Leone and Nigeria. Congo has become the latest African country to confirm the outbreak.

According to WHO, as of Sept. 13, 2014, there have been almost 5,000 reported cases, and the disease has claimed nearly 2,500 lives.

President Rajapaksa handed over Sri Lanka’s contribution to WHO Country Representative Dr. Firdosi Mehta. The Hayleys Group of Companies facilitated this contribution.

Minister of External Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris and Secretary to the Ministry of External Affairs Mrs. Kshenuka Senewiratne were also present. (kh)