At least 100 deaths have been reported in an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with more than 390 cases suspected, the head of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has told the BBC.
Jean Kaseya warned that with no approved drugs or vaccines, people should follow public health measures, including precautions at funerals of Ebola victims.
Additionally, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported two confirmed cases and one death in Uganda.
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the current strain of Ebola, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, an international emergency.
Kaseya emphasized the importance of preventative measures, noting that community funerals in previous outbreaks contributed significantly to the spread of the virus. He urged compliance with health guidelines to avoid further infections during these sensitive times.
The WHO has advised further screenings particularly at borders between DR Congo and Uganda to prevent transmission, as regional health authorities remain vigilant.
The outbreak is reminiscent of earlier waves of Ebola, which have seen over 28,600 infections reported during the devastating outbreak from 2014 to 2016, highlighting the recurring challenges of controlling this deadly virus in vulnerable regions.
