WHO says eastern DR Congo Ebola outbreak may eclipse 2014 epidemic
The Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo has caused more than 2,000 deaths among over 4,300 reported cases and genetic sequencing shows it began in February, months before its official May declaration; the WHO warned it could eclipse the 2014–2016 West African epidemic if it continues at the current pace. The circulating virus is a rare Bundibugyo strain with no approved vaccines or treatments, prompting new vaccine development and clinical trials of remdesivir and experimental MBP134, while insecurity, displacement and health worker strikes complicate response and raise cross-border spread risk.
Outbreak has killed over 2,000 people and may become the deadliest Ebola epidemic.
Context
Health authorities declared the outbreak in May but sequencing showed it began in February. Conflict, displacement and unpaid wage strikes have hindered response. Trials and vaccine tests are under way and must show results to guide…
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