DRC: Ebola outbreak continues in North Kivu and Ituri provinces /update 11

Event

According to the Congolese Ministry of Health, at least 140 confirmed cases of Ebola virus disease (EVD) have been reported in the DRC between August 1 and early October. Reports indicate that at least 108 fatal cases were reported in North Kivu and Ituri provinces. The outbreak is currently located in Beni, Butembo, Kalunguta, Mabalako, Masereka, Musienene, and Oicha health zones in North Kivu province and the adjacent Mandima health zone in Ituri province.

On Tuesday, October 2, three workers from the Congolese Red Cross were attacked and wounded by local residents in the Beni area while transporting the bodies of deceased EVD victims, prompting the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to suspend burials in the area to guarantee the safety of their workers. The World Health Organization (WHO) remains concerned about the risk of national and regional transmission given the area's insecurity, high numbers of displaced persons, and the threat of continued violence hampering response efforts.

Context

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

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.