The Democratic Republic of Congo’s latest Ebola outbreak can still be contained if the right steps are taken within the next two weeks, according to Patrick Otim, World Health Organization Programme Area Manager.
The outbreak, which is the country’s 16th overall and first in Kasai province since 2008, has reported 32 suspected cases, 20 confirmed cases, and 16 deaths.
Containing the outbreak is “possible, but it will be challenging if we miss the window of opportunity,” Otim said, emphasizing the need for more support for the government and other partners.
The WHO has called for additional resources to combat the outbreak, including 40,000-50,000 Ebola vaccine doses.
While the WHO has stockpiled treatments and 2,000 doses of the Ervebo vaccine, only 400 doses have arrived at the outbreak’s epicentre in Bulape.
Aid workers have expressed concerns about the potential struggle to mount an effective response due to recent cuts in foreign assistance.
The outbreak poses a moderate risk of spreading to other countries, with Angola being the most prioritized. With the right support and resources, however, containing the outbreak is still achievable.
