Confirmed Ebola cases nearly double in days as WHO chief visits DR Congo

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.