The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially declared its 16th outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD),following the confirmation of cases in Kasai Province.
Health authorities reported 15 deaths and 28 suspected cases across the Bulape and Mweka health zones,including four infections among healthcare workers.
The outbreak’s index case is a 34-year-old pregnant woman who was admitted to hospital last month with symptoms consistent with Ebola,including high fever and persistent vomiting. Laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of the Zaire strain of the virus. Investigations are underway to determine the source of the infection.
This marks the first Ebola outbreak in Kasai since 2008. The most recent national outbreak occurred in Equateur Province in 2022.
In response,the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has mobilized rapid support. Director General Dr. Jean Kaseya traveled to the DRC to meet with the Minister of Health and coordinate emergency measures. Africa CDC has deployed teams to strengthen surveillance,contact tracing,laboratory capacity,data management,and infection prevention and control in the affected areas.
Ebola virus disease is a zoonotic hemorrhagic fever that affects humans and non-human primates. It is transmitted through contact with infected animals or bodily fluids of infected individuals. Symptoms include fever,fatigue,muscle pain,vomiting,diarrhea,and unexplained bleeding. The average case fatality rate is approximately 50%.
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