Ebola outbreak in DR Congo 'out of control', warns MSF

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has spiraled out of control, according to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Over 2,500 people have died from the disease, which is now the largest Ebola epidemic the country has ever experienced. The outbreak began in late July and has rapidly spread across multiple provinces, including some that were not affected during the last major epidemic in 2018-2020.

MSF's Jacob Burns, speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, described the epidemic as "the fastest moving Ebola epidemic we've seen". He noted that in the first 100 days, the outbreak has seen a significantly higher number of cases compared to the previous West African epidemic of similar magnitude.

The outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo species of Ebola, which has no approved vaccines or treatments. MSF's project coordinator in the Congo stated that the situation is "out of control" and that the epidemic is moving very rapidly, spreading to six provinces. Burns also mentioned that recent conflicts in the country make it difficult to reach areas where transmission is ongoing.

Apart from Ebola, other viruses like malaria are also causing serious problems in the region. MSF is calling for more investment in a surveillance system to control the outbreak.

In light of the outbreak, Pope Leo XIV called for international action to help contain the impact of the epidemic, urging the global community to respond in a way that involves local communities in prevention efforts. More than 16,000 doses of the Ervebo vaccine arrived in the Congo on Friday night, but the WHO is still unsure whether the vaccine will protect against the Bundibugyo strain. Early data from animal trials suggest it could offer some protection.