“World Health Organization confirms elevated mortality rate in the recent Ebola outbreak in Africa”
The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Thursday that the mortality rate from Ebola in southern Democratic Republic of Congo has risen sharply, with 31 out of 38 confirmed cases resulting in death. This marks a significant increase from the initial count of 16 deaths reported just a week prior.
The rapid spread of the virus has led to over 900 contacts being identified in connection to the confirmed cases. In response, authorities have initiated a vaccination campaign in the affected region, with more than 500 healthcare workers and contacts already receiving crucial protection.
Vaccination and Logistical Challenges
The outbreak was first declared on September 5 in the town of Bulape, located in the Kasai region near the border with Angola. Since then, it has spread from two districts to four, as confirmed by the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The WHO has stated that a new batch of vaccines, authorized by the International Coordinating Group for Vaccine Provision, is expected to arrive between Friday and Sunday. However, the distribution process is facing significant challenges.
“Vaccination efforts have been hindered by accessibility issues, leading to delays in transportation,” explained Sheillah Nsasiirwe, Health Emergency Officer for Immunization at WHO Africa. The limited storage infrastructure in Bulape has resulted in the vaccines being transported in small batches, further delaying deployment.
