Ebola cases in Congo exceed 5,000 as outbreak worsens
NAIROBI: Confirmed Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo have exceeded 5,000. Government data showed the figure reached 5,021 cases by Tuesday. Health officials warned that response efforts are struggling to contain the deadly disease. The outbreak has also caused thousands of deaths across the country. Read More: Congo latest Ebola outbreak has killed 2,325 people in […]
A deadly Ebola outbreak, deemed the deadliest in the Democratic Republic of Congo's history, has claimed over 2,300 lives within three months, according to government data released on Monday. The United Nations asserts this is the fastest growing Ebola outbreak on record, with victims succumbing every 30 minutes. No specific vaccine or treatment exists for the Bundibugyo strain responsible for the current surge, which spreads through contact with bodily fluids and causes hemorrhagic fever.
The outbreak, declared on May 15, marks the DRC's 17th Ebola epidemic and is believed to have been spreading for weeks prior to declaration. The conflict-ridden northeastern Ituri province, where most cases have been recorded, borders five other provinces. Despite efforts, the response has been criticized for being slow and disorganized.
Local healthcare workers have gone on strike, demanding payment for bonuses. International organizations urge the DRC to provide proper protection for healthcare workers battling the outbreak.
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- Ebola outbreak is DRC's deadliest ever iol.co.za
