At least 15 individuals have died due to a new Ebola virus outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, according to the country’s health ministry. The virus was confirmed in a 34-year-old pregnant woman who was hospitalized last month after exhibiting symptoms such as high fever and repeated vomiting. This marks the 16th recorded outbreak of the virus in the nation, which has ongoing challenges with health services and persistent conflict, particularly in the eastern regions.
The current outbreak is located in central Kasai province, with 28 additional suspected cases reported. Health officials have emphasized the importance of preventive measures, including frequent handwashing and social distancing in high-risk areas. Laboratory tests have identified the Zaire strain of Ebola, which is recognized as a rare but frequently fatal disease.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is actively working to contain the outbreak and protect local communities. Notably, four of the deceased individuals were health workers. The WHO has indicated that case numbers may continue to rise as transmission persists, and response teams are mobilizing to identify and care for those who may be infected.
DR Congo has a stockpile of treatments, including 2,000 doses of the Ervebo vaccine, which is effective against this strain of Ebola. The last outbreak in the country occurred three years ago, resulting in six deaths, while a more severe outbreak in 2019 claimed over 2,000 lives.
Ebola is believed to originate from fruit bats and was first recognized in 1976 near the Ebola River in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo. Infection typically occurs through direct contact with the blood, vomit, feces, or bodily fluids of an infected person.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjed2pg0wy7o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss