WHO declares Ebola outbreak in DR Congo, Uganda a global health emergency
Summary
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda a global health emergency. Over 300 suspected cases and 88 deaths have been reported, mainly in the DRC, and neighboring countries are at risk of further spread.Key Facts
- The Ebola outbreak involves the rare Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD), which has no approved treatments or vaccines.
- This is the third time BVD has been reported, though over 20 Ebola outbreaks have occurred in the region before.
- Most cases are in eastern DRC’s Ituri province near Uganda and South Sudan.
- Uganda has reported two cases, both people who traveled from the DRC; one patient died in Kampala.
- The WHO recommends isolating confirmed cases and restricting national travel but advises against closing borders or stopping trade.
- Ebola spreads by direct contact with body fluids of infected people or contaminated materials.
- The outbreak could grow larger due to a high positive rate in initial tests and increasing suspected cases.
- Countries near the outbreak are urged to prepare emergency plans and increase border and road screenings.
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