Ebola in DR Congo: 10,060 confirmed cases and 4,887 deaths
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Bénin Web TV
The Ebola outbreak in the DR Congo has reached 10,060 confirmed cases and 4,887 deaths, according to figures released by health authorities on 27 October. Ituri and North Kivu account for most infections, while insecurity and distrust are complicating the response, Bénin Web TV reports.
Health authorities in the DR Congo have recorded 10,060 confirmed cases of Ebola and 4,887 deaths since the outbreak began, after being detected in May. The figures were released on Tuesday 27 October, according to Bénin Web TV, which cited Congolese health authorities.
The National Institute of Public Health has also recorded 2,684 recoveries. Ituri and North Kivu, in the east of the country, account for the majority of reported infections. The outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, for which no vaccine or specific treatment has been approved. Trials are assessing the potential protection offered by Ervebo, a vaccine effective against the Zaire species of Ebola virus.
The response is being complicated by violence and distrust among part of the population. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), a nurse was killed and a health worker seriously injured on Saturday in Tshopo province. The treatment centre concerned subsequently closed, the chief medical officer of Bafwasende district told AFP.
In Niania, health authorities are holding meetings with traditional chiefs, religious leaders and local associations to address rumours. The WHO also reported visits to the treatment centre by religious leaders and demonstrations on safe burials and disinfection. The announcement of the new figures comes after the tally of 9,704 cases and 4,687 deaths, published on 23 October, followed by the North Kivu tally reporting 27 deaths among 63 new cases, published on 27 October.
