LunagisthubEbola Outbreak in DR Congo: A Growing Concern
A recent Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has resulted in 42 deaths out of 64 confirmed cases, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The outbreak, declared in early September, has prompted health authorities to roll out a vaccine program against the often-fatal virus.
64 confirmed cases and 42 deaths have been reported, with a mortality rate estimated at 45.7%.
The WHO and partners are supporting the government-led response, including a vaccination campaign that began two weeks ago. Nearly 45,000 additional doses of the Ebola vaccine have been approved for shipment to the DRC.
The WHO estimates a high risk of further spread on a national level but a moderate risk in the wider region .
Lack of protective gear for healthcare workers has contributed to the spread of the virus.
Delayed detection and incomplete contact tracing have hindered efforts to contain the outbreak.
Unsafe burials have also played a role in spreading the virus.
Ebola is a highly contagious viral disease spread through direct contact with bodily fluids, causing severe bleeding and organ failure.
First identified in 1976, Ebola has killed over 15,000 people in Africa over the past 50 years.
The current outbreak is caused by the Zaire strain of the virus, for which there is a vaccine .
Lunagisthub
