Transcript of Dr. Deborah Birx on Ebola Outbreak in the DRC

The following is the transcript of the interview with Dr. Deborah Birx that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on May 24, 2026. NANCY CORDES: We turn now to the escalating Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Joining us to discuss is the former White House coronavirus response coordinator, Dr. Deborah Birx, who also previously helped coordinate the international response to the 2014 Ebola outbreak when she was Global AIDS Coordinator. Dr. Birx, thank you for being with us. DR. DEBORAH BIRX: Good to be with you, Nancy. NANCY CORDES: The WHO reports nearly 750 suspected cases in the Congo and around 200 deaths. How does the severity of this situation compare to previous outbreaks? DR. DEBORAH BIRX: The current outbreak likely had several cycles of infection before it was reported, leading to a rapid rise in numbers. Many cases reported now were likely infected weeks ago, which complicates our understanding of the outbreak's current status. NANCY CORDES: A plane from Paris to Detroit was diverted to Montreal after a passenger from the Congo was allowed to board. What should Americans know about the risk here at home? DR. DEBORAH BIRX: Given the level of the outbreak, I understand public concern. However, the DRC has experienced multiple outbreaks in recent decades, and while this one is significant, we have improved our preparedness since COVID-19. Hospitals now have bio-container facilities to manage potential cases. Proactive measures, including travel bans, are essential. NANCY CORDES: Is the travel ban the right answer? DR. DEBORAH BIRX: It is part of a comprehensive response. The US has sent a DART team and has personnel already on the ground in the DRC. This is part of a broader funding response, not a standalone solution. NANCY CORDES: The Trump administration has made cuts to USAID and funding to the DRC. Do you think these actions contributed to the outbreak's delay in reporting? DR. DEBORAH BIRX: The administration has allocated funds recently for the response. However, we need to investigate why the African CDC and other institutions did not detect this outbreak earlier. We owe it to the people in the DRC to improve our response capabilities. NANCY CORDES: Aid workers have indicated that local programs aimed at Ebola preparedness were terminated after US aid was reduced. DR. DEBORAH BIRX: It's important to assess the impact of these cuts. While some funding was retained, the perception of slashed programs needs to be addressed. The US government has agreements in place that provide substantial funding, which should reassure the public. NANCY CORDES: The US currently lacks confirmed leadership in key health agencies. Is the US prepared to respond effectively?