The African Union (AU) has voiced worries about the recent Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda. AU Commission (AUC) Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf highlighted the escalating risk of the outbreak spreading across the continent. He called for increased support from African nations and partners to enhance preparedness, surveillance, and rapid response in affected and vulnerable countries.
Youssouf praised the prompt actions of the DRC and Uganda governments, along with national health authorities and frontline workers, in containing the outbreaks despite challenging conditions. He also acknowledged the preparedness initiatives of neighboring countries, especially South Sudan. The AU expressed solidarity with the people and governments of the DRC and Uganda during this critical period.
The AU reiterated its full backing for the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) in leading a coordinated continental response in partnership with member states, the World Health Organisation (WHO), humanitarian partners, donors, and other stakeholders. The protection of African lives and the preservation of continental health security were emphasized as top priorities by the Chairperson.
The latest data from the Africa CDC revealed that the death toll in the DRC has reached 87 since the current outbreak began in the Ituri Province. The agency cautioned that the outbreak, driven by the Bundibugyo strain, poses a significant risk of regional transmission as there is currently no strain-specific vaccine available. Ebola virus, known for its high contagion rate, can lead to symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, pain, malaise, and in severe cases, internal and external bleeding. The World Health Organisation (WHO) notes that Ebola fatality rates vary from 50% to 89% based on the viral subtype.
