KAMPALA, UGANDA — The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a surge in suspected Ebola cases and deaths in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda, with the number of suspected cases reaching 600 and suspected deaths at 139.
The WHO has warned that these numbers are expected to rise further, as the Bundibugyo species of Ebola, not seen for over a decade, poses unique challenges.
The outbreak, primarily centered in Ituri Province of the DRC, has led to 51 confirmed cases, with two additional cases reported in neighboring Uganda.
The WHO’s Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus explained that the virus is likely to have started several months ago, with the first known case being a nurse who died on April 24th.
The situation is particularly concerning as the true magnitude of the outbreak remains uncertain.
The WHO has declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), indicating that the outbreak poses a risk to other countries and requires coordinated international action.
The DRC is facing its 17th Ebola outbreak, and the Bundibugyo species, which has not been seen for more than a decade, brings additional difficulties. There is no approved vaccine for Bundibugyo, and while experimental ones are in development, there are also no drugs that specifically target this strain.
The WHO has mobilized significant resources to support the response effort, including the deployment of medical supplies and emergency kits.
However, the organization has warned that much more may be needed to effectively combat the outbreak, especially in a region that has suffered years of conflict, with hospitals and clinics damaged or destroyed, and millions displaced.
As the Ebola outbreak continues to escalate, the WHO and its partners are racing against time to control the spread of the virus.
The situation in the DRC and Uganda remains critical, with the potential for the outbreak to spread further and affect neighboring countries.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
—
This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: BBC Africa
