Ebola outbreak in DR Congo deepens crisis for conflict-affected emergencies, Red Cross warns as cases exceed 800
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) stated on Tuesday that the Ebola epidemic in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is worsening the vulnerability of people already affected by armed conflict and various forms of violence, Qazinform News Agency cites Anadolu Agency.
The ICRC said that between May 15 and June 15, the five hospitals it supports in North and South Kivu provinces reported 303 casualties, a 30% increase compared with the period from April 14 to May 14.
Since the outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo Ebola strain was declared on May 15, Congo has reported over 800 confirmed Ebola cases, including 196 deaths, according to the latest update from the Health Ministry.
The ICRC stated that although the Ebola epidemic in the affected provinces requires increased vigilance, there is concern that it might be overshadowing the ongoing urgent needs of people impacted by armed conflict and other violence.
Moussa Badji, the ICRC’s medical coordinator in Congo, stated that the Ebola-related health crisis has not decreased the number of conflict-related emergencies. Surgical teams continue to face constant pressure due to a steady flow of patients wounded by weapons.
Hospitals in Bukavu, Uvira, and Fizi in South Kivu have admitted 170 casualties, reflecting intensifying hostilities, according to the ICRC.
“The combination of armed conflict and an epidemic is potentially devastating,” said Francois Moreillon, the head of the ICRC delegation in Congo.
He said that, given the circumstances, it is essential that the warring parties act responsibly to ensure cooperation and optimal coordination on health matters, including facilitating the work of humanitarian organizations and the rapid, unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid.
“These measures are essential to ensure that the wounded and sick receive appropriate medical care as quickly as possible,” Moreillon added.
Doctors Without Borders, a medical charity, stated Monday that, even with increased efforts, significant gaps in surveillance, diagnosis, contact tracing, and community engagement still hinder efforts to control the outbreak one month after it began.
The virus is spreading through the eastern provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu, with Ituri accounting for almost 95% of cases.
Earlier, Qazinform News Agency reported that the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) had intensified, with 782 confirmed cases and 178 fatalities.
