DRC: WHO report indicates continuing Ebola outbreak in Bas-Uélé province as of May 21

Event

The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Sunday, May 21, that the ongoing outbreak of the Ebola virus disease (EVD) in Likati, Bas-Uélé province, has killed four people since April 22. According to the WHO spokesman, of the 37 cases of hemorrhagic fever discovered, two have been confirmed as Ebola, three (including the latest death) are considered probable, and 32 are suspected. Health authorities are reportedly monitoring 416 people who came into contact with patients and have dispatched mobile laboratories to the area to rapidly test those displaying potential symptoms in order to contain the spread of the virus.

Context

Isolated outbreaks of EVD have occurred occasionally in DRC, mostly in remote areas. The latest outbreak was declared by government authorities on May 12. Despite a dilapidated healthcare system, international health organizations operating in the country as well as the local population are well versed in responding to the disease. This was not the situation in West Africa, where a 2014 case turned into a major epidemic that killed more than 11,000, as Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone had little prior history of Ebola outbreaks, causing a delayed reaction and lack of knowledge that allowed the outbreak to develop into a major epidemic.

EVD is extremely virulent. The disease is transmitted to humans via direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected animals. The disease can then be transmitted between humans and is highly contagious, particularly during the hemorrhagic phase. Ebola is characterized by the sudden onset of high fever, weakness, joint and muscle pain, and headache. A sore throat is also a common early symptom. These symptoms are followed by nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, rashes, kidney and liver failure, and, in some cases, internal and external bleeding.

Advice

Though the latest outbreak is likely to be contained, given the highly infectious nature of the disease travelers should avoid the area and monitor the situation. To prevent the spread of EVD:

•    Avoid contact with infected individuals and any items that have been in their close proximity
•    Avoid consuming bush meat and only handle animals when wearing gloves and the appropriate protective wear
•    Animal products (meat and blood) should be thoroughly cooked before consumption
•    Adhere to a strict observance of hygienic precautions (wash hands regularly, etc.)
•    Avoid crowded areas (stadiums, markets, train stations, etc.)
•    In case of doubt, individuals should seek immediate medical attention and comply with all directives issued by local health authorities.