Background on the Affected Region and Previous Outbreaks
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been grappling with the Ebola virus disease once again, as confirmed by the World Health Organization (WHO). The current outbreak has been reported in the Kasai province, located in central DRC. This region previously experienced Ebola outbreaks in 2007 and 2008, with the 2007 outbreak being particularly devastating, resulting in over 260 cases and 187 fatalities.
Outbreak Details and Government Response
According to the DRC’s health authorities, there have been 28 suspected cases and 15 deaths, including four healthcare workers, in the Kasai province. The government declared the outbreak following laboratory analysis at the National Institute for Biomedical Research (INRB) in Kinshasa, which confirmed positive cases from the villages of Bulape and Mweka. Symptoms observed include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and hemorragia.
WHO’s Africa Regional Director, Dr. Mohamed Janabi, emphasized the urgency to halt virus spread and safeguard communities by collaborating closely with health authorities to intensify key response measures and swiftly end the outbreak.
WHO’s Rapid Response Team Deployment
The WHO has deployed a Rapid Response Team in Kasai, comprising experts in epidemiology, infection prevention and control, laboratory work, and case management. This team aims to bolster surveillance, treatment, and infection prevention and control efforts at healthcare facilities.
Additionally, provincial experts in risk communication have been deployed to engage with communities and educate them on protective measures against the virus, which can cause severe and often fatal illness in humans.
Vaccine Availability and Ongoing Challenges
Authorities acknowledge that case numbers may continue to rise, but they have 2,000 doses of the Ebola vaccine available in Kinshasa, the capital, for transport to the affected area. More vaccines have been requested.
Among the deceased are two nurses and a laboratory technician from the affected region, as confirmed by Patrick Otim, Head of Area for WHO’s Emergency Response. Otim highlighted the need to strengthen surveillance in Kasai and neighboring provinces, ensure adherence to prevention and control measures, provide medical and logistical support, and enhance risk communication and community engagement to counter misinformation.
Historical Context of Ebola in DRC
Since 1976, DRC has experienced 15 Ebola outbreaks. The deadliest occurred between 2018 and 2020, with 3,481 cases, 2,299 deaths, and 1,162 survivors. The most recent outbreak was reported in April 2022 in Equateur province, which was contained within three months. Kasai province has previously been affected by outbreaks in 2007 and 2008, with the 2007 outbreak being the deadliest, resulting in more than 260 cases and 187 deaths.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current situation with the Ebola outbreak in DRC? The WHO has confirmed an Ebola outbreak in the Kasai province of DRC, with 28 suspected cases and 15 deaths reported.
- Which regions have been previously affected by Ebola in DRC? Previous outbreaks occurred in Kasai (2007 and 2008) and Equateur (2018-2020), with Kasai’s 2007 outbreak being the deadliest.
- What measures is the WHO taking to address this outbreak? The WHO has deployed a Rapid Response Team with experts in various fields to strengthen surveillance, treatment, and prevention efforts.
- How many vaccine doses are available, and have more been requested? There are currently 2,000 doses of the Ebola vaccine available in Kinshasa, and additional vaccines have been requested.
- What are the ongoing challenges in controlling this outbreak? Challenges include rising case numbers, ensuring adherence to prevention measures, and providing necessary medical and logistical support.
