WHO Warns New Ebola Outbreak in DRC Could Be Deadliest
Summary
The WHO says a new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo could become the deadliest on record, with more than 4,300 infections and over 2,000 deaths so far. Health officials are racing to contain the Bundibugyo strain while vaccine and antiviral trials are underway.
Key Points
- WHO says the new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo could surpass the deadly 2014-2016 epidemic.
- More than 4,300 people have been infected and over 2,000 have died since the outbreak was officially declared in May.
- The outbreak is caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain, for which no approved vaccine or medicine is currently available.
- The UK MHRA has approved human trials for a new vaccine, while WHO is also testing older antiviral drugs in Congo.
