Home / Health / Congo Ebola Outbreak Surges Past 5,000 Cases
Congo Ebola Outbreak Surges Past 5,000 Cases
19 Aug
Summary
- Ebola outbreak in Congo reached over 5,000 cases with 2,378 deaths.
- The Bundibugyo species of Ebola is causing the current outbreak.
- Insecurity and displacement are fueling the rapid spread of the virus.
The ongoing Ebola outbreak in Congo has now recorded over 5,000 cases, with nearly 2,400 fatalities, according to government data updated as of Sunday. This marks Congo's 17th Ebola epidemic and is characterized by the Bundibugyo species, for which no approved vaccines or treatments currently exist.
The epidemic's speed is historic, spreading approximately three times faster than the 2014-2016 West Africa outbreak. Health officials, including the World Health Organization's Director-General, have stated the outbreak is far from being under control, warning of high risks for further national and international spread.
Response efforts are severely hampered by insecurity, particularly in the heavily affected Ituri province. Health workers have faced targeted attacks, with a recent incident involving a mob setting fire to an ambulance and damaging other vehicles after a suspected case was reported.
