DR Congo begins Ebola and cholera screening for 255 passengers after Congo River boat incident

Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) are implementing Ebola and cholera screening procedures for all 255 passengers on board the intercepted Yingfeng 2 boat, originating from the city of Kisangani. The vessel, operated by a Chinese company, was halted near Bende Bende port, situated 65km upstream from the capital, Kinshasa.

Minister Roger Kamba of Health announced the precautionary measures following the death of a passenger, aged three, who exhibited symptoms of fever and diarrhoea. The fatalities, totaling four, occurred in Mongala Province, a region without recent Ebola cases, contrary to previous reports. WHO teams have boarded the boat to conduct tests, with no positive results as of now.

The 21-day incubation period continues, and the virus, identified as Bundibugyo, has caused the deadliest Ebola outbreak since May 15. DR Congo is currently experiencing its 17th Ebola outbreak since then, resulting in 3,973 confirmed cases and 1,801 deaths. Public health teams stand ready for potential spread, with security services instructed to quarantine the ship offshore.

The government emphasizes that these measures are precautionary due to the rarity of Bundibugyo, which lacks specific treatments or vaccines.