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Ebola hemorrhagic fever

Congo Marks Milestone in Fight Against Ebola Outbreak

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A significant milestone has been reached in the Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) fight against the Ebola outbreak, as the last patient was discharged on Sunday. The recovery marks the start of a 42-day period, during which, if no new cases emerge, the outbreak can be officially declared over. World Health Organisation (WHO) regional director for Africa Dr Mohamed Janabi hailed the achievement as a remarkable result of partnership, national expertise, and determination. Since the outbreak was declared on 4 September in the Bulape health zone of Kasai Province, a total of 64 cases (53 confirmed and 11 probable) have been reported, with 19 patients recovering, and no new cases emerging since September 25.

Key Takeaways:

  • The DRC has experienced 16 outbreaks of the Ebola virus since 1976.
  • The WHO Regional Office for Africa reported 64 cases (53 confirmed and 11 probable) since the outbreak was declared on 4 September.
  • The outbreak response was escalated by the ministry of health, supported by WHO and partners, with multidisciplinary teams deployed to strengthen surveillance, clinical care, infection prevention and control, logistics, community engagement, and other key response measures.
  • The WHO and its partners collaborated closely with the government to maintain measures for swift detection and response to potential new cases.
  • Over 35,000 individuals have received Ebola vaccinations in Bulape.
  • Bulape resident Bethy credited the community health workers for educating her on the importance of the Ebola vaccine, leading to her decision to get vaccinated.

Statistics:

  • 64 cases (53 confirmed and 11 probable) were reported since the outbreak was declared on 4 September.
  • 19 patients have recovered.
  • No new cases have emerged since September 25.
  • 35,000 individuals have received Ebola vaccinations in Bulape.
  • The DRC recorded 16 outbreaks of the Ebola virus since 1976.
  • If no new cases emerge during the 42-day period following the last patient's discharge, the outbreak can be officially declared over.

Sources:

  • World Health Organisation (WHO) regional director for Africa Dr Mohamed Janabi.
  • WHO Regional Office for Africa.
  • The Namibian, "Congo Marks Milestone in Fight Against Ebola Outbreak".
  • Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).
  • Bulape resident Bethy.
  • World Health Organisation (WHO) Director General Tedros Ghebreyesus's statement on Twitter.

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