The Democratic Republic of Congo is confronting its first Ebola outbreak in three years, with 48 confirmed and probable cases reported and 31 deaths, according to the World Health Organization on Thursday.
The outbreak, declared on Sept. 4 in Kasai Province near the Angolan border, has placed international health agencies on high alert amid fears of further spread in the region.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the agency has delivered more than 14 tons of critical medical supplies, deployed 48 experts, and established an Ebola treatment center in Bulape, the epicenter of the outbreak.
Sixteen patients are currently receiving care, including monoclonal antibody therapy (mAb114), while two patients have already recovered and been discharged.
“This outbreak is occurring in a remote region, but every delay increases the risk of further transmission,” Tedros said. He urged donors to support the WHO’s $21 million appeal, emphasizing that immediate investment is essential to contain the outbreak and save lives.
