BREAKING: A lethal new outbreak of Ebola has claimed 35 lives and infected 57 individuals in southern Congo, alarming health authorities and humanitarian organizations. The outbreak was officially reported on September 4, marking the first occurrence of Ebola in Kasai province in 18 years, a region known for its challenging access due to poor road networks.
Health officials are raising urgent calls for assistance, highlighting a dire lack of funds and resources to effectively combat the crisis. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reported that the fatality rate has surged past 61 percent, intensifying fears among local communities. “Without immediate support, gaps in operations will persist, jeopardising efforts to contain the outbreak and protect vulnerable communities,” stated Tarik Jasarevic, WHO spokesperson.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has urgently appealed for $25 million (A$38 million) to support the response, aiming to provide assistance to 965,000 people in the region. Conditions are critical, with health facilities overwhelmed and essential resources, including clean water and protective equipment, running dangerously low.
Currently, the only treatment center in the epicenter of the outbreak, the Bulape health zone, is operating at a staggering 119 percent capacity. “We desperately need ambulances to transport patients from remote areas before they become highly contagious,” urged Jean Paul Mbantshi, chief medical officer of Bulape. He emphasized the urgent need for more medical supplies and protective gear to safeguard health workers.
As of September 21, just 1,740 people in three health zones of Kasai province have received vaccinations. However, health officials warn that this number is alarmingly insufficient given the population of over 212,000 in the Bulape zone alone.
Compounding the crisis, health authorities express concern over the recent cuts in US funding, which historically supported Congo’s efforts to manage Ebola outbreaks. Despite some limited support from the US government, local officials fear that these reductions could hinder crucial response efforts.
The situation remains urgent as health authorities and organizations race against time to contain this outbreak before it escalates further. As the world watches, the call for immediate action grows louder.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds, and share this information to raise awareness about the critical situation in Congo.
