epidemic – n. an occurrence in which a disease spreads very quickly and affects a large number of people

stretched – v. to require (someone) to use a lot of effort, ability or skill in order to succeed

surveillance – n. the act of carefully watching someone or something especially in order to prevent or detect a crime

region – n. a part of a country or the world that is different or separate from other parts in some way

emerge – v. to become known or apparent

outbreak – n. a sudden start or increase of fighting or disease

devastation – n. the destruction of much or most of (something)

bit – n. a little; somewhat or rather

lax – adj. not careful enough; not strict enough

dropped the ball – idiom to make a mistake; to fail in some way

it came roaring back – idiom to forcefully return after a period of weakness

absolutely – adv. often used to make a statement more forceful

essential – adj. extremely important and necessary

set up – idiom to put something together; to create

Has Ebola affected you or your country? Do you believe your government is prepared for a sudden spread of Ebola? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the comments section.