AP
–
The new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is suspected to cause 15 deaths of 28 people with symptoms, the health ministry in Central African countries said Thursday.
It was the 16th outbreak of Ebola in Congo, and Health Minister Samuel Logger Kamba said a fatal rate, estimated at 53.6%, indicated the severity of the situation.
The confirmed case was from a 34-year-old pregnant woman in the area of Bourape in southern Kasai Province. Research into suspected cases was underway.
“To date, the preliminary report shows 28 suspected cases and 15 deaths, including 14 in Bulape, 1 in Mweka and 4 healthcare workers,” Kamba said.
Suspicious cases and deaths presented symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea and severe bleeding.
The World Health Organization said it had dispatched experts along with Congo’s rapid response team to Kasai Province to enhance the surveillance of disease, treatment and prevention and control of infection in health facilities. It also offers equipment such as personal protective equipment, mobile laboratory equipment, and medical supplies.
The Congo has a stockpile of treatments and a stockpile of the Elbevoebola vaccine.
“We are acting with determination to quickly stop the spread of the virus and protect our communities,” said Dr. Mohamed Janabi, Regional Director of Africa.
Ebola virus is highly contagious and can contract through body fluids such as vomiting, blood, and semen. The diseases it causes are rare, but the illnesses in people are rare, but often fatal.
