DRC health minister warns ‘very high’ Ebola lethality rate as toll hits 80
Summary
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is facing a new Ebola outbreak that has caused at least 80 deaths and nearly 250 suspected cases. Health officials are working to trace contacts and screen people to prevent the disease from spreading, especially to neighboring countries like Uganda and South Sudan.Key Facts
- The current Ebola outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo strain, which has no vaccine or specific treatment.
- This strain can kill up to 50 percent of those infected.
- The outbreak was confirmed in Ituri province, which borders Uganda and South Sudan.
- At least 80 deaths have been reported, with one death in Uganda.
- The suspected first patient was a nurse who showed symptoms on April 24 in Bunia, the provincial capital.
- Only 13 blood samples have been tested so far, with eight positive for the Bundibugyo strain.
- Health groups like Doctors Without Borders (MSF) and the Red Cross are helping with the response.
- Officials warn that high population density and cross-border travel could increase the spread of Ebola.
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