WHO 'Deeply Concerned' as Ebola Cases Surge in DRC; Experimental Vaccines Considered

Ekhbary News Agency

Democratic Republic of the Congo — The World Health Organization (WHO) is deeply concerned by the accelerating pace and scale of an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO chief, reported that the outbreak has resulted in at least 500 suspected cases and 130 suspected deaths since its inception. This marks a significant increase from previous figures, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Spreading Threat and Limited Resources

Experts warn that the current known cases might only be the "tip of the iceberg," with potential spread across the porous border into South Sudan. Dr. Mesfin Teklu Tessema of the International Rescue Committee noted a severe lack of basic protective equipment for healthcare workers in the affected Ituri Province, stating, "we are actually flying blind." The Bundibugyo strain, identified as the cause of this outbreak, currently has no approved vaccine or treatment, and its mortality rate ranges from 30% to 50%, potentially higher when care is delayed.

International Response and Containment Efforts

In response, global health leaders are actively considering the use of experimental vaccines and medicines that are still under development. Scientists have published the virus's genome, suggesting a recent "spillover event" from an animal source, which offers a potential pathway for tracing and interruption. However, a WHO official cautioned that controlling this outbreak could take a considerable amount of time, potentially up to two years, referencing a past outbreak that lasted that long. Neighboring countries like Rwanda have closed their borders, while the WHO urges against travel restrictions, emphasizing screening at border crossings.