Ebola Outbreak Declared in DR Congo's Ituri Province
Africa's leading health authority, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC Africa), has announced an Ebola outbreak in the eastern Ituri province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).
To date, approximately 246 cases and 65 fatalities have been reported, predominantly in the gold-mining towns of Mongwalu and Rwampara, according to CDC Africa.
The agency's statement on Friday indicated plans to convene a meeting involving DR Congo, Uganda, South Sudan, and other international partners to coordinate response efforts and enhance cross-border surveillance.
Background and Transmission of Ebola
Ebola virus was initially identified in 1976 in the region now known as DR Congo. It is believed to have originated from bats. This current event marks the 17th Ebola outbreak recorded in the country.
The virus transmits through direct contact with bodily fluids, leading to severe bleeding and organ failure.
Early symptoms include fever, muscle pain, fatigue, headache, and sore throat. There is currently no cure for Ebola.
Testing and Case Confirmation
Preliminary laboratory tests conducted at the Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale (INRB) in Kinshasa, the capital city, have confirmed the presence of the virus in 13 out of 20 samples analyzed. These tests were carried out following consultations with DR Congo's Ministry of Health and the National Public Institute.
Of the 65 reported deaths, four occurred among laboratory-confirmed cases, as stated by CDC Africa.
Additional suspected cases have been reported in Bunia, the provincial capital of Ituri, with laboratory confirmation still pending.
Government Response and Regional Context
The Congolese government has not yet officially declared an outbreak. A government official informed the BBC that a press conference was expected later on Friday to address the situation.
Ituri province has been under military administration since 2021, with civilian governance replaced by a military general. This measure aims to neutralize numerous armed groups operating in the area for many years, including the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), which is affiliated with the Islamic State group.
Historical Impact and Recent Outbreaks
Over the past five decades, Ebola has caused approximately 50,000 deaths across various African countries.
DR Congo experienced its deadliest Ebola outbreak between 2018 and 2020, resulting in nearly 2,300 fatalities.
In 2023, an outbreak in the central Kasai province led to 45 deaths.
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