65 dead as fresh Ebola outbreak hits eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

A fresh outbreak of the Ebola virus has been confirmed in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, with at least 65 deaths recorded so far, according to African health authorities.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention disclosed this on Friday, noting that 246 suspected cases had been identified, including four fatalities among laboratory-confirmed patients.

Health officials said the outbreak was detected in Ituri Province, located in the eastern part of the country.

Africa CDC noted that it is closely tracking developments and has already convened an emergency high-level coordination meeting involving authorities from the DRC, Uganda, South Sudan and international health partners to strengthen cross-border surveillance, preparedness and response measures.

Ebola virus disease, first discovered in 1976, is a severe and highly infectious haemorrhagic illness transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids.

The disease can lead to severe bleeding, organ failure and death if not contained quickly.

Over the past five decades, Ebola outbreaks across Africa have reportedly claimed about 15,000 lives.

The deadliest outbreak in the DRC occurred between 2018 and 2020, resulting in nearly 2,300 deaths.

Health authorities have urged residents and neighbouring countries to remain vigilant and promptly report suspected infections to help contain the spread of the virus.

65 dead as fresh Ebola outbreak hits eastern Democratic Republic of Congo