The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as a “Public Health Emergency of International Concern” (PHEIC). This is the third known outbreak of the rare bundibugyo virus, for which there are no approved vaccines or specific therapies so far.

According to the WHO, at least 10 cases have been confirmed by laboratory diagnostics so far. More than 330 people are suspected cases, and over 80 people are believed to have died from the disease. Infections were also reported in Uganda after two confirmed cases arrived from Congo. The WHO assumes that the actual number of cases could be significantly higher, as the outbreak has probably been circulating undetected for some time.

The outbreak was first reported in Ituri province in eastern Congo. A health worker who showed symptoms such as fever, vomiting and bleeding at the end of April and later died is considered an index case. The long incubation period of 2 to 21 days and ongoing conflicts in the region have made early detection difficult. Several health workers in a hospital are affected, suggesting possible transmission in medical facilities.

The Bundibugyo virus is transmitted through contact with infected body fluids. Experts warn of further spread to neighboring countries and call for increased monitoring and diagnostics. Most rapid tests are designed for the more common Zaire Ebola virus, which makes detection even more difficult.

The WHO and international partners are now working on the rapid provision of diagnostics, protective equipment and other containment measures. The current situation shows once again how fragile health systems are in crisis regions and how quickly an outbreak can escalate if health workers themselves are affected.

The development is being closely monitored by experts worldwide. It is the third PHEIC outbreak caused by an Ebola virus in recent years. The international community is called upon to provide rapid support to the affected countries in order to prevent further spread.

Original Paper:

Ebola outbreak is a global health emergency: what happens next

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Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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