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WHO Chief Tackles Ebola in DR Congo Conflict Zone
30 May
Summary
- WHO head visited Ituri to assess Ebola outbreak response challenges.
- Funeral practices pose risks for Ebola transmission.
- New lab in Bunia provides 24-hour Ebola test results.
The World Health Organization (WHO) chief recently visited Ituri in the Democratic Republic of Congo to evaluate the Ebola outbreak response. He noted that ongoing conflict significantly hampers efforts to control the disease.
During his visit, the WHO head emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating that local populations understand the challenges and potential solutions best. He also addressed sensitive cultural practices, specifically warning that touching the bodies of those who died from Ebola can further spread the virus.
A critical development highlighted was the National Institute for Biomedical Research laboratory in Bunia. This facility now delivers test results for suspected Ebola patients within 24 hours. Previously, samples had to be sent over 1,500 km to Kinshasa, causing critical delays.
