At least 6 Americans in Congo were exposed to Ebola virus, sources say
Update: An American doctor has tested positive for Ebola and is being taken to Germany for treatment, officials said Monday. Read more here. Our earlier story is below.
Reports from international aid organizations indicate that at least six Americans were exposed to the Ebola virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is uncertain whether any of them have been infected, but sources have revealed that three of the Americans had high-risk contact or exposure to the virus, with one exhibiting symptoms. The current whereabouts of these individuals remain unknown. The initial report on these exposures was first brought to light by the health news organization STAT.
The World Health Organization recently declared the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda as a “public health emergency of international concern.” With at least 80 suspected deaths reported, the situation is dire. As of Sunday, there were over 300 suspected cases in Congo, with eight laboratory-confirmed cases this year alone, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The specific strain of the virus responsible for this outbreak, known as Bundibugyo, currently has no vaccine or treatment available. The CDC has been actively involved in supporting interagency partners to safely evacuate a small number of Americans directly impacted by this outbreak.
Despite these alarming developments, the CDC has assured the American public that the risk remains low. The organization continues to closely monitor the situation and has robust systems in place to detect and respond promptly to potential public health threats. Travel advisories have been issued for Americans traveling in Congo and Uganda, advising them to practice enhanced precautions and avoid contact with symptomatic individuals.
Ebola virus is transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person and does not spread through casual contact or the air. In response to the outbreak, the CDC has implemented additional screening measures and restrictions for individuals without U.S. passports who have been in affected areas.
The U.S. State Department has been collaborating with the governments of Congo and Uganda to contain the virus, while also mobilizing support from international partner organizations with expertise in Ebola response. The latest outbreak in eastern Congo’s Ituri province marks the 17th occurrence of Ebola in the country since 1976, with one of the deadliest outbreaks claiming over 11,000 lives between 2014 and 2016.
