New Ebola outbreak in Congo causes 65 deaths and hundreds of suspected cases
Kyiv • UNN
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 65 deaths and 246 suspected cases of Ebola have been recorded. The virus could spread to Uganda and South Sudan due to migration.
A new outbreak of Ebola has been recorded in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, resulting in 65 deaths. Additionally, 246 suspected cases of infection have been registered. This was reported by Euronews with reference to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, according to UNN.
Details
The highest number of cases was detected in the Mongbwalu and Rwampara health zones in the eastern province of Ituri. Individual suspected cases were also recorded in the city of Bunia near the border with Uganda. Currently, four fatalities have been laboratory-confirmed, but authorities believe the scale of the outbreak is significantly larger.
Uganda and South Sudan at risk
Africa CDC warns of a high risk of the virus spreading due to active population movement, particularly in mining areas. The situation is complicated by the unstable security environment in Ituri, where armed groups operate and attacks occur regularly.
Medics also report difficulties in tracing the contacts of those infected. Local authorities are attempting to promptly identify individuals who may have been in contact with the sick.
Ebola is a severe viral disease with a high mortality rate. The disease is transmitted through contact with the biological fluids of infected people or contaminated animals. Symptoms include high fever, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and internal bleeding.
WHO emphasizes the effectiveness of vaccination
According to WHO data, mortality during Ebola outbreaks can reach 90%, although the average rate is around 50%. At the same time, experts note that response methods have significantly improved in recent years.
Daniela Manno, Clinical Assistant Professor at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, stated that vaccines against certain strains of the virus now exist. According to her, the rapid application of so-called "ring vaccination" helps contain the spread of infection around confirmed cases.