A MAJOR appeal to tackle the Ebola outbreak, described by the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) as the most severe the world has ever seen, is launched today.

The DEC's Ebola Crisis Appeal, for urgent funds to enable its 13-strong group of leading UK aid charities to step up their vital work, will be carried by all major UK broadcasters.

BBC appeals will be presented by actor Lenny Henry and commercial radio appeals will be fronted by Downton Abbey actress Joanne Froggatt.

The DEC has so far helped more than 2.5 million people affected in West Africa.

The deadly virus has killed nearly 5,000 people and infected another 10,000. The World Health Organisation has warned there could be up to 10,000 new cases a week by December.

This is the first time in the DEC's 50-year history it has launched an appeal in response to a disease outbreak. It says its action reflects the scale of the situation.

DEC chief executive Saleh Saeed said: "Aid workers are on the front line in the fight against Ebola. Some are facing great risk and local staff and partners are also being ostracised because people are so terrified.

The appeal is to be launched in Scotland at Edinburgh City Chambers.