Confirmed Ebola cases nearly double in days as WHO chief visits DR Congo
Al Jazeera reports that confirmed Ebola cases in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo nearly doubled in recent days as a rare Bundibugyo strain spreads. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited Bunia, the outbreak epicentre, and called for community-led response.
Al Jazeera reports that confirmed Ebola cases in the outbreak that began in DR Congo's eastern Ituri province nearly doubled in recent days, with the total reaching 738 cases and 202 deaths. The outbreak is caused by the previously rare Bundibugyo strain, and the existing Ervebo vaccine provides only partial protection against this strain.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited the outbreak epicentre in Bunia and called for a shift to community-led response. Tedros said access to areas controlled by the M23 armed group is logistically difficult and that the need for a safety corridor for health workers is growing. Africa CDC Director General Jean Kaseya warned of the risk of case doubling within the critical 90-day window.
International donors have covered 42 percent of WHO's $285 million appeal; the EU has pledged an additional 65 million euros and Japan $28 million. A donor conference is scheduled in Geneva in early September. This article does not constitute medical advice; for health decisions, consult local authorities and your physicians.
More from Africa
Ghana's parliament passes anti-LGBTQ+ bill
BBC Africa reports that Ghana's parliament has passed a bill criminalising same-sex acts and advocacy for LGBTQ+ identity. Human rights organisations have announced plans for a constitutional court challenge, while government representatives described the measure as the democratic will of parliament.
DRC health minister warns 'very high' Ebola lethality rate as toll hits 80
The health minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo warned that the lethality rate of an Ebola outbreak in the country's east is exceptionally high. The official death toll has reached 80, and local authorities flag a shortage of treatment-centre capacity.
Mali junta leader names himself defence minister after predecessor killed
Mali's military junta leader has assumed the role of defence minister after his predecessor, Sadio Camara, was killed in a major offensive by combined jihadist and separatist forces.