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 · Faisal AliAl 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
Four sentenced to death in Nigeria over Catholic church attack
Four people convicted of killing worshippers at a Catholic church in Nigeria were sentenced to death, BBC reported. The court announced its verdict and said the defendants retain the right to appeal. The case has reopened debate over security challenges in the country.
DR Congo health workers describe how they are treating Ebola and staying safe
As an Ebola outbreak continues in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, health workers described the protective protocols they follow while treating patients. Medical equipment and vaccine deliveries to the affected region are ongoing. Regional health authorities said they are conducting continuous monitoring.
Egyptian court sentences activist Ahmed Douma to prison again
Egyptian activist Ahmed Douma has been sentenced to prison again after writing an article critical of the country's prison system. Al Jazeera reported that the ruling, coming after his 2022 pardon, has been criticised by human-rights organisations.