The World Health Organization (WHO) has provided a significant update regarding the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), reporting a sharp decline in the number of suspected infections currently under investigation.
According to the latest data from the WHO, the outbreak has resulted in 321 confirmed cases. While 116 infections remain suspected and are still being investigated, this figure represents a substantial decrease from previous reports. Just days ago, the WHO had cited 906 suspected cases and 223 suspected Ebola-related deaths linked to the Bundibugyo strain of the virus.
This update comes amid slightly differing reports from other health bodies. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) indicated on Sunday that more than 1,100 suspected cases were still being investigated, highlighting the complexities of tracking the virus in the region.
Addressing the discrepancy in figures, WHO spokesperson Christian Lindmeier explained that laboratory testing and rigorous investigations have allowed health officials to rule out hundreds of suspected cases. Lindmeier noted that many of those previously suspected were found to have other diseases or had experienced isolated symptoms, such as fever, without the presence of Ebola.
Health officials emphasized that suspected case numbers are expected to fluctuate as surveillance teams continue their critical work of testing and tracing contacts to contain the spread of the virus.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
