246 suspected cases have been declared in DRC. The African Centre for Disease control has declared that this outbreak has a high risk of spread.
1 man has died as a result of the virus in Uganda, however the ministry has stated that "This is an imported case from DRC. The country has not yet confirmed a local case," and assures the state that there is as of yet no need for widespread concern.
It has been declared that this is the man in Uganda had the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. This not the most lethal strain of Ebola, however there is currently no vaccine for the Bundibugyo variant.
The WHO have stated that they will increase support in the affected areas, as it is a country with high population density and ongoing humanitarian issues. The WHO have also acknowledged that the DCR is well versed in dealing with Ebola outbreaks.
"With the insecurity, people are crowded together in the city, and since there are so many people in the city, an epidemic like this would be very serious," Anne-Marie Dive, a resident of Bunia, the main city in Ituri, where the outbreak is occurring has stated.
The Bundibugyo variant of the Ebola Virus has a 32% mortality rate. Symptoms including fever, generalized body pain, weakness, vomiting and, in some cases, bleeding.
The WHO have stated that "Ebola disease is a severe and often fatal illness transmitted through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected people, as well as contaminated surfaces and materials. Early detection, supportive treatment and rapid public health measures significantly improve survival and are critical to stopping transmission."
