Ebola outbreak: Cases increase almost 40% in a week, deaths pass 200
Ebola Outbreak in Congo and Uganda Claims Over 200 Lives in First Month
The Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda has taken a devastating toll, with more than 200 lives lost in its first month. According to Africa’s Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, this is the worst outbreak at this stage, with up to 35,000 suspected potential contacts.
Dr. Wessam Mankoula, a medical epidemiologist at Africa CDC, revealed that there have been 894 confirmed cases so far. This current outbreak is three times more severe than a previous outbreak in Uganda in 2000, which had 281 cases at the same point. The outbreak was confirmed on May 15, weeks after it was suspected to have begun. The number of cases has risen by 38% since last week and has now spread to 32 health zones across eastern Congo.
The outbreak is caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus, for which there are no approved vaccines or treatments. This virus was not initially tested for, as the more common Zaire virus, responsible for most of Congo’s past outbreaks of Ebola, was expected. Experimental treatments like monoclonal antibodies are being developed for Bundibugyo.
Despite the efforts to contain the outbreak, it is concentrated in Congo’s eastern province of Ituri, accounting for over 90% of the cases. Cases have also been reported in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces, with the disease crossing the border into Uganda, where 19 cases have been confirmed, resulting in two deaths.
Contact tracing remains a significant challenge due to the area’s remoteness and ongoing insecurity in Ituri province. Dr. Mankoula emphasized the importance of tracking contacts, stating that there should be between 17,000 to 35,000 contacts for the 800 confirmed cases. However, only around 4,000 contacts have been traced and evaluated, less than 15%.
The displacement of nearly a million people due to years of conflict in Ituri has further complicated contact tracing efforts. The region’s dense forests, poor roads, and remote villages make it challenging to reach affected communities.
Despite over $900 million pledged to fight the outbreak, only $90 million has been released, hindering response efforts. Africa CDC estimates that 540 personnel are needed to combat the outbreak, but only 84 are currently available. Efforts are underway to secure additional funding and resources to address this ongoing crisis.
As the situation remains critical, it is essential for countries and partners to honor their commitments and provide the necessary support to contain the outbreak and prevent further loss of life.
