DR Congo crisis: A public health ‘nightmare’ is unfolding, warns WHO
- 29 January 2025
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that a public health “nightmare” is unfolding in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where a deadly Ebola outbreak is spreading rapidly.
The outbreak, which began in August 2024, has now killed more than 2,000 people and infected over 3,000. The virus is spreading rapidly through the country’s densely populated eastern region, where health infrastructure is weak and access to clean water and sanitation is limited.
“The situation in the DRC is a public health nightmare,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “The virus is spreading rapidly through densely populated areas, and the health system is struggling to cope.”
The WHO is working with the DRC government and other partners to contain the outbreak, but the challenges are immense. The country is plagued by insecurity and conflict, which makes it difficult to reach affected communities and deliver essential health services.
“The situation in the DRC is a serious threat to regional and global health security,” said Dr. Ibrahima Fall, WHO’s Regional Director for Africa. “We need to act now to prevent this outbreak from spreading further.”
The WHO is calling on the international community to provide urgent support to the DRC government to help contain the outbreak. The organization is also urging people in affected communities to take precautions to protect themselves from infection, such as washing their hands regularly, avoiding contact with sick people, and seeking medical attention if they experience symptoms of Ebola.
Symptoms of Ebola include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Weakness
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Bleeding
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
The Ebola virus is transmitted through contact with the bodily fluids of infected people or animals. The virus can also be transmitted through contaminated surfaces or objects.
There is no cure for Ebola, but early treatment can improve the chances of survival.
The WHO is working with the DRC government and other partners to:
- Contain the outbreak
- Provide treatment to infected people
- Support the health system
- Train health workers
- Educate the public about the virus
The WHO is also calling on the international community to provide urgent support to the DRC government.
The Ebola outbreak in the DRC is a serious threat to regional and global health security. The WHO is working with the DRC government and other partners to contain the outbreak, but the challenges are immense. The international community must provide urgent support to help the DRC government contain the outbreak and prevent it from spreading further.
DR Congo crisis: A public health ‘nightmare’ is unfolding, warns WHO
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