Ebola outbreak in DR Congo: 515 cases and 91 deaths reported

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported that the ongoing outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola has led to 515 confirmed cases and 91 deaths in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

WHO made this announcement in a statement on Tuesday, saying that nearby Uganda has also recorded 19 confirmed cases, two deaths, and one suspected fatal case as of June 6.

"As of June 6, a total of 515 confirmed cases, with 91 deaths among these confirmed cases, have been reported from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

"Uganda has reported 19 confirmed cases, including two deaths, as well as one probable case who has died."

According to WHO, the outbreak is changing quickly, with more areas being affected and cases spreading across the border between the two countries.

The organisation highlighted that infections among healthcare workers in Uganda are a major concern, noting evidence of the virus spreading among contacts and medical staff.

WHO stated that all confirmed cases in Uganda are linked to the DRC, involving both imported infections and further transmission in communities and health facilities.

It mentioned that national authorities in both countries, with help from WHO and partners, have stepped up surveillance, contact tracing, infection prevention, and community engagement activities.

"The response package also includes laboratory testing, safe and dignified burials, and protection for frontline health workers," it added.

On June 5, WHO announced the launch of a continent-wide Ebola preparedness and response plan in partnership with the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

According to the organisation, this plan seeks $518 million to help African countries prepare for, detect, and respond quickly to Bundibugyo virus disease and other viral hemorrhagic fever threats.

WHO noted that the DRC still carries the heaviest burden of the outbreak, with cases spreading to new areas and daily infections on the rise.

It also pointed out that Uganda remains at risk as long as cross-border movements continue and exposure occurs in healthcare settings.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Bundibugyo virus disease comes from the Bundibugyo ebolavirus and spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals.

Unlike some other Ebola types, there is no licensed vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain at this time. This makes early detection, isolation, and strict infection prevention measures very important to control the outbreak.