WHO confirms Ebola outbreak in Central Africa crosses 270 cases as Congo and Uganda struggle with Bundibugyo strain
Health authorities confirmed the Ebola outbreak in Central Africa has crossed 270 cases. The WHO and the Government of Congo released a joint statement on May 31, warning of a rapidly evolving situation. The strain is Bundibugyo, which has no licensed vaccine and no approved trea
Health authorities confirmed the Ebola outbreak in Central Africa has crossed 270 confirmed cases. The WHO and the Democratic Republic of the Congo released a joint statement on May 31 warning of a rapidly evolving situation. The Bundibugyo strain is a rare and severe form of Ebola with no licensed vaccine and no approved treatment. The Congolese Ministry of Health says cases and deaths are now being reported across Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu. Uganda has confirmed nine cases. NBC News reports at least 43 confirmed deaths across both countries, with hundreds of additional suspected deaths still under investigation. The Africa CDC says more than 1,100 suspected cases are being looked into. The WHO declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17. The US CDC and Department of Homeland Security have tightened airport screening for travelers from the affected region.