An outbreak of Ebola has been officially announced in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with a reported death toll of 15 individuals, including four healthcare workers, and concerns over additional suspected cases.
Health authorities have verified 28 potential cases as of September 4 in the Bulape and Mweka health zones, where affected individuals exhibited common symptoms of fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and hemorrhaging. Laboratory tests conducted at the National Institute of Biomedical Research in Kinshasa on September 3 have confirmed that Ebola Zaire is the causative agent.
To combat the outbreak, a national Rapid Response Team has been dispatched, with support from experts from the World Health Organization (WHO) specializing in epidemiology, laboratory procedures, case management, and infection prevention. Their primary objectives include establishing disease surveillance systems, enhancing safety protocols in healthcare facilities, and providing urgent medical treatment.
The WHO has expedited the delivery of two tons of crucial supplies, such as personal protective gear, mobile laboratory equipment, and medical kits. However, accessing the affected area remains challenging, as aid workers must endure a lengthy journey from Tshikapa, the provincial capital, due to limited flight options.
Dr. Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa, emphasized the organization’s commitment to swiftly containing the virus spread and safeguarding communities. Leveraging the country’s extensive experience in controlling viral outbreaks, collaborative efforts with local health authorities are underway to rapidly implement key response strategies and bring the outbreak under control promptly.
Ebola, a severe and rare infection predominantly found in specific regions of Africa, can be contracted through contact with infected individuals or wildlife body fluids. Symptoms typically manifest between two and 21 days post-exposure and can include flu-like signs, high fever, fatigue, headaches, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, skin rashes, and jaundice.
Individuals infected with Ebola may experience symptoms such as bloody stools, widespread bruising, and bleeding from various bodily orifices. The most recent Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo occurred in the north-western Equateur province in April 2022, and was successfully contained within three months through concerted health authority efforts. Since its discovery in 1976, there have been a total of 15 Ebola outbreaks in the country.
