DRC Sees Surge in Ebola Cases: How WHO is Boosting Surveillance in Neighboring Countries

At least 68 people are suspected of having Ebola in four districts of the Kasai state in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention reports that out of these, 20 cases have been confirmed, and 16 individuals have died since the outbreak was declared on September 4.

The first case emerged at the Bulape General Referral Hospital. Tragically, both a nurse and a laboratory technician involved with the case have also died. Dr. Ngashi Ngongo highlighted that this outbreak is peculiar; it seems to be a new spillover of Ebola, similar to the strain found in the initial 1976 outbreak rather than the more recent ones.

Getting samples from these remote areas to laboratories is challenging and takes time. To assist, the World Health Organization (WHO) has sent 12 tonnes of supplies, including personal protective equipment and hygiene materials, to help with clinical care and protect health workers. Dr. Mohamed Janabi from WHO emphasized the urgent need for effective outbreak control to prevent the virus from spreading further.

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) is also stepping in. They’re working with local health authorities and the WHO to manage a treatment centre at Bulape Hospital. MSF’s emergency coordinator, Brice de le Vingne, shared that their team is not only providing medical supplies but also training local staff on infection control. Currently, a dozen MSF personnel are on-site, with plans to send in more resources soon.

So far, 68 health workers have been vaccinated using a stock of 2,000 vaccines held by the DRC. This proactive approach is essential, as the Africa CDC warns that the outbreak threatens not just national health systems but also neighboring countries like Angola.

To control the situation, Bulape town is under lockdown. People are restricted from moving freely while contact tracing efforts are underway, although officials admit more work is needed. The WHO collaborates with ten neighboring countries to enhance disease surveillance and ensure preparedness, particularly in areas bordering the DRC.

Ebola is a serious virus that can be fatal. Humans typically catch it from infected animals, and it spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated objects. Understanding and curbing this outbreak is critical not just for the DRC but also for global health.

For more information, you can visit the [WHO website](https://www.who.int). This will give you insights into ongoing health initiatives and disease prevention strategies.

Image Credits: [UNICEF/Tremeau](https://www.unicef.org/stories/2019-year-photos).

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