Red Cross volunteers die from suspected Ebola in DR Congo
Summary
Three Red Cross volunteers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) died from suspected Ebola infections caught before the Ebola outbreak was officially identified. The outbreak has caused over 170 suspected deaths and 750 suspected cases mostly in the eastern region of DR Congo, with health officials raising the risk level to very high.Key Facts
- Three Red Cross volunteers died between May 5 and May 16 in DR Congo’s Ituri region from suspected Ebola infections.
- They likely contracted the virus on March 27 while handling dead bodies before the outbreak was detected.
- The Ebola outbreak has more than 170 suspected deaths and 750 suspected cases in DR Congo.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) raised the public health risk in DR Congo to “very high.”
- The Ebola strain involved is Bundibugyo, a rare type with no proven vaccine and about a 33% death rate.
- Neighboring Uganda has reported five confirmed Ebola cases, with 10 other African countries at risk.
- Community fear and resistance are causing difficulties in managing the outbreak, including attacks on treatment tents and hospitals.
- Some affected areas are controlled by rebel groups, complicating response efforts.
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