Health Officials Confirm New Ebola Outbreak in Eastern DR Congo

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Kinshasa: Africa’s leading health agency has confirmed a fresh outbreak of the Ebola virus in the eastern Ituri province. At least 65 deaths and over 240 cases have been reported, primarily centred around mining towns and urban hubs.

The Africa CDC is currently coordinating with neighbouring Uganda and South Sudan to establish cross-border surveillance. 

Health experts have expressed concern over the high risk of transmission due to significant population movement and the densely populated nature of the affected mining communities.

Preliminary tests in the capital have confirmed the presence of the virus in the majority of samples analysed, and work is underway to identify the specific strain. Ebola is a severe viral disease transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluids, often resulting in organ failure. It carries an average fatality rate of 50 per cent.

The region remains under military rule due to ongoing local instability, which may complicate the medical response. 

This is the 17th outbreak in the country’s history, following its deadliest period between 2018 and 2020 when nearly 2,300 people died. Local residents have been urged to follow strict health guidelines as the government prepares a formal briefing.

Pic Credit: AFP