Ebola outbreak in Congo leaves 15 dead, reports authorities

In the heart of Central Africa, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is once again grappling with an outbreak of Ebola fever. The World Health Organization (WHO) announced the outbreak in the Kasai province, located in the southwest of the country, on an unfortunate note - 15 deaths have been reported due to the disease.

The outbreak was first declared in April, with the capital city of Tshikapa, about 650 kilometers away from Kinshasa, reporting four deaths. This marks the return of Ebola to the DRC after the last reported cases in 2022.

The affected region, though not yet updated regarding its accessibility, remains difficult to reach, posing significant challenges for emergency response teams. The WHO, however, has dispatched experts and medical supplies to the area in an effort to contain the outbreak.

A total of 28 suspected cases of Ebola have been reported in the Kasai province. It's crucial to note that Ebola is a contagious and life-threatening infectious disease, transmitted through bodily contact and contact with bodily fluids. If not treated immediately, the mortality rate of Ebola can reach up to 90%.

The WHO reported that the last outbreak, which occurred in the Équateur province, was brought under control within three months. However, the current situation in the Kasai province remains a concern due to its remote location.

The DRC has unfortunately experienced 15 outbreaks of Ebola so far, with the most devastating occurring in West Africa in 2014 and 2015, resulting in over 11,000 deaths.

In a positive development, medication and 2,000 doses of the Ebola vaccine Ervebo are available in the DRC. The WHO has not yet mentioned any new death toll due to the current Ebola outbreak in the Kasai province.

As the situation unfolds, it's essential that all necessary measures are taken to control the outbreak and ensure the safety of those affected and the wider population. The DRC, along with the international community, must work together to combat this deadly disease and prevent its further spread.