The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is worsening fast, with deaths now rising to 136 and confirmed cases hitting 676.
According to Tribune Online, citing the World Health Organisation, the outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola and remains concentrated in eastern DR Congo, especially Ituri Province. Cases have also been reported in North Kivu and South Kivu, while neighbouring Uganda has confirmed 19 cases and two deaths linked to cross-border spread.
Health officials say more than 5,000 contacts are being monitored, but insecurity in eastern Congo is slowing surveillance and contact tracing. At least 16 healthcare workers have also tested positive.
WHO has rated DR Congo’s risk as “very high” but advised against travel or trade restrictions.
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