The number of Ebola cases could exceed 20,000 within three months, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released Friday.
The agency’s projection highlights the rapid spread of the virus in affected regions. Health officials stressed that immediate containment efforts are critical to preventing a larger outbreak.
Despite the alarming forecast, the C.D.C. emphasized that the risk to people in the United States remains low. No cases have been reported within the country’s borders.
The report comes as international health organizations scale up their response. Medical teams are racing to deploy resources and isolate infected patients.
The C.D.C. based its estimate on current transmission rates in West Africa. Without significant intervention, the virus could double in cases every few weeks.
Public health experts are calling for increased funding and global cooperation. They warn that delays in action could worsen the crisis.
The agency continues to monitor the situation closely. Travel advisories and screening measures remain in place at U.S. airports.
