DR Congo suspected of having a new Ebola outbreak that killed 15 people

The health ministry in the central African nation of the Democratic Republic of the Congo stated Thursday that a new Ebola epidemic is suspected of killing 15 of the 28 persons who have symptoms.

Health Minister Samuel-Roger Kamba stated that the projected 53.6% death rate from the 16th Ebola outbreak in Congo demonstrated the seriousness of the issue.

A 34-year-old pregnant woman from the southern Kasai province’s Boulapé neighborhood was the confirmed case. The alleged cases were still being investigated. “To date, the provisional report shows 28 suspected cases and 15 deaths, including 14 in Boulapé and 1 in Mweka, as well as four health care workers,” Kamba said.

Fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and severe bleeding were among the symptoms seen in the suspected cases and fatalities. In order to improve illness surveillance, treatment, and infection prevention and control in medical facilities, the World Health Organization says it sent its experts to Kasai province along with Congo’s Rapid Response Team. Additionally, it is transporting medical supplies, portable lab equipment, and personal protection equipment.

According to WHO, Congo has a supply of Ervebo Ebola vaccine and therapy.

“We’re acting with determination to rapidly halt the spread of the virus and protect communities,” said Dr. Mohamed Janabi, WHO regional director for Africa.