Congo: The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed 11 new cases of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo's Kasai Province, bringing the total number of cases to 57, including 10 probable cases and 35 deaths. The outbreak, which was first reported in early September, appears to be showing a decreasing trend in the number of new cases over the past week. However, WHO emphasizes that vigilance remains high as the situation continues to be closely monitored.
In response to the outbreak, WHO has deployed medical experts and delivered over 14 tonnes of essential supplies to the affected region. Additionally, an Ebola treatment center has been established in Bulape, the epicenter of the outbreak, currently housing 16 patients. More than 900 contacts are under monitoring, and vaccination efforts have commenced, with 400 doses of the Ervebo Ebola vaccine delivered from the national stockpile of 2,000 doses.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has issued an urgent call for support to prevent the rapid spread of Ebola in the DRC. The IFRC is appealing for 20 million Swiss francs (about $25 million) to contain the outbreak, citing overwhelmed health facilities and a lack of essential resources in the affected areas.
While the situation is improving, the WHO and its partners continue to monitor the outbreak closely and are working to prevent further spread of the virus.