In the midst of the 17th Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, an expert has highlighted a key change that could help contain the virus. The World Health Organisation has confirmed 600 suspected cases and 139 deaths in the current outbreak, with 51 cases in the DRC and two in Uganda. This outbreak is unique as it involves the rare Bundibugyo species of Ebola, for which there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment. Dr. Yakubu Mohammed Sanni, Country Director of ActionAid DRC, expressed concerns about the overwhelming situation in hospitals and emphasized the need for a dedicated Ebola treatment center in the most affected areas to prevent further spread.
The absence of a specialized treatment center in the region has led to challenges in isolating and treating infected individuals. Dr. Sanni stressed the importance of establishing an Ebola treatment center in Bunia to facilitate efficient patient care and reduce the risk of transmission. Hospitals are currently adapting by segregating Ebola patients from others, but the lack of a designated facility poses a significant threat.
The World Health Organisation has warned of a high risk of Ebola spread within the DRC and Uganda at national and regional levels. The first Ebola-related death occurred on April 24 in Bunia, causing a delay in confirmation and subsequent escalation of the outbreak. Dr. Anne Ancia from the WHO team in the DRC mentioned the ongoing challenges in identifying the initial case and highlighted the detrimental impact of funding cuts on humanitarian efforts.
