Alarm Over Potentially Undercounted Ebola Cases
The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed concerns that the number of Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) could be much higher than the figures currently being reported. According to WHO officials, the actual number of cases may be double the official count, which stands at 1,963 confirmed cases, with at least 719 resulting in deaths.
Statements from WHO Officials
Chikwe Ihekweazu, Executive Director of the WHO's Health Emergencies Programme, after visiting the affected region, highlighted the challenges in accurately counting cases. He noted that many deaths occur within family settings rather than medical facilities, which complicates tracking efforts. "Based on our support and modelling, the outbreak's scale is at least two to four times the reported cases," Ihekweazu stated during a press briefing in Geneva.
As of July 12, healthcare facilities in the affected regions were treating 727 patients, marking the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak recorded on the African continent.
Healthcare Workers Face Payment Issues
Efforts to manage the outbreak are further hindered by threats of strikes from medical staff in the DRC due to unpaid salaries. At the Ebola treatment centre in Rwampara, located in the heavily affected Ituri province, healthcare workers staged a protest by burning a tyre and blocking access temporarily. This region has confirmed 384 cases, with 89 fatalities.
According to the DRC’s National Institute of Public Health, healthcare workers have been significantly impacted, with 112 reported transmissions and 35 deaths among them. Dr. Pascal Bahoya, working at the Rwampara centre, expressed frustration over the lack of payment since May 15, stating they continue to work due to their professional oath despite difficult conditions.
Dr. Jeremie Bataga, another physician at the centre, mentioned that a "48-hour ultimatum" had been given for salary disbursements, failing which a total strike would ensue. Health worker Bahati Claude shared similar grievances, citing a two-month delay in salaries.
Government Response and Challenges
Congolese Health Minister Samuel Roger Kamba acknowledged the "payment delays," attributing them to "organisational issues." During a visit to Ituri, Kamba explained that the government is verifying payroll lists, which have been complicated by the addition of unrelated names. "We must ensure that these payments reach the right people," Kamba said, noting the challenges in resolving discrepancies.
No Vaccine for Current Ebola Strain
The current outbreak, declared on May 15, is caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which no vaccine or specific treatment is available. In response, international partners and African nations have mobilized $1.5 billion to support health efforts in the DRC. Clinical trials for two potential treatments are underway as the outbreak affects five provinces, including Tshopo and Haut-Uele, with recent cases also reported in Uganda.
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