Ebola spreads in Congo: 1,700 deaths and 3,802 cases reported

• With 1,707 deaths, the outbreak in Congo has already recorded 3,802 confirmed cases and 1,707 deaths.
• Africa CDC says that more than 80% of new infections are linked to transmission through direct contact with infected people’s bodily fluids, while the spread through airborne transmission is unlikely.
• In Uganda, two possible causes of the outbreak were identified during an investigation; however, medical workers are still looking into the problem without a clear explanation.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ebola has already killed 1,700 people. The outbreak has been ongoing for 3,802 confirmed cases and 1,707 deaths.

Director-General of Africa CDC, Dr. Jean Kaseya, said during another visit to Bunia that the outbreak is ongoing, but it is not yet clear where the spread is coming from. He also said that at least 80% of new infections are linked to transmission through direct contact with infected people’s bodily fluids, not through airborne transmission.

In total, 15 people have died from the virus. Samples have shown that the virus is the Bundibugyo virus. The material also notes that, for now, there is no evidence of any other virus causing the outbreak, and that the spread is linked to local transmission.

Doctors say the outbreak is spreading rapidly. In the affected area, at least 90% of cases are linked to transmission through direct contact. The virus has been spreading in the region of Ituri, where it was first detected in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Experts say the outbreak is likely to continue. They also note that the virus can spread through close contact and that there is no clear evidence of airborne transmission.

Practitioners say that the key factor in preventing the spread is to ensure safe treatment and proper hygiene. Dr. Jean Kaseya said that the situation is being monitored and that the outbreak can be controlled through preventive measures.

All available data on the outbreak indicate that more than 100 health workers have been infected. The material also notes that, in the period from 2014 to 2016, 28,000 cases were recorded and 11,000 deaths occurred, while up to 1,000 cases were reported in the following years.

The investigation, which is ongoing, is aimed at identifying the causes of the spread and determining the best ways to stop it. The material also emphasizes that the outbreak is not yet fully understood and that further research is needed.

Tags: Well-being/Ecology/Research