Ebola: the race to find a cure | Sarah Boseley | World news | The Guardian

Ebola: the race to find a cure | Sarah Boseley | World news | The Guardian: The Oxford scientists had 15 days to visit eight potential sites, spread across three countries paralysed by economic collapse, and where travel was limited by curfews and quarantine laws. They were looking for a treatment centre that fitted the exacting criteria for their trial. Horby described finding the right site as “like aligning the stars”. They needed well-designed buildings, internet connectivity, reliable power and plug sockets. They needed to be sure the drugs could be kept securely on site. “You’ve got a long list [of possible sites], but when you look at who fits all the criteria, you rapidly cross them off,” said Horby. “Finding one that’s easily accessible, got good infrastructure, international and local staff who are enthusiastic, good data management, good pharmacy, access to a good lab that’s willing to process research samples – and it’s got patients. There were hardly any that met all those criteria.”