DR Congo Faces New Ebola Outbreak in Kasai Provinc...

DR Congo Faces New Ebola Outbreak in Kasai Province

Zim Now Writer

The Democratic Republic of Congo is grappling with a fresh Ebola outbreak after health authorities confirmed a new case in the southern Kasai province.

The infection, reported in a 34-year-old pregnant woman, brings the number of suspected cases to 28, with 15 confirmed deaths so far, according to the Ministry of Health.

Authorities caution that these numbers are provisional as investigations continue.

Health Minister Roger Kamba, speaking from the capital Kinshasa, said, “These figures remain preliminary while investigations are ongoing,” highlighting the urgency of the situation.

The World Health Organization reported that the outbreak has affected the Bulape and Mweka areas of Kasai, with patients showing common Ebola symptoms, including fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and hemorrhaging.

In response, WHO has dispatched experts to support the DRC’s health teams and sent two tonnes of medical and laboratory supplies.

Mohamed Janabi, WHO’s regional director for Africa, emphasized the coordinated response: “We are acting swiftly to contain the virus and safeguard communities.

"Drawing on the DRC’s experience in managing viral outbreaks, we are scaling up surveillance, treatment, and infection prevention measures immediately.”

This marks the 16th Ebola outbreak in the DRC since the virus was first identified in 1976, with the previous outbreak ending in April 2022 in Equateur province.

Ebola, naturally hosted by bats, has caused multiple deadly epidemics across Africa, with mortality rates reaching up to 90 percent in some instances.

As the country mobilizes resources to contain the disease, health authorities continue to urge vigilance and rapid reporting of suspected cases to prevent further spread.