‘Ebola is a business’: an analysis of the atmosphere of mistrust in the tenth Ebola epidemic in the DRC

This paper examines the atmosphere of mistrust that permeated response to tenth Ebola epidemic in Eastern DRC (2018–2020). The concept an ‘atmosphere mistrust’ we develop this article directs attention elusive-yet-pervasive presence interactions between responders and communities during epidemic. analysis focuses on popular notion ‘Ebola is a business’. Our interviewees frequently used saying our research explain why had emerged, how it materialized, against whom was directed. Based these interviews, examine business’ as slogan enabled people voice mistrust. slogan, aim show, resonated with wider governed emergency situation DRC. In using it, responded their perceptions whilst simultaneously perpetuating extending highlights power atmospheres governing situations, mobilizing people, disrupting structures discrimination. It aims contribute better understanding barriers inhibiting collaborations affected responders, which are required deliver effective responses. Moreover, argue important analytics for exploring histories epidemics ask for.