Kinshasa:The World Health Organisation (WHO) has urged for heightened epidemiological surveillance following the discovery of new Ebola clusters in remote areas of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo). The organization warned that security and logistical challenges are hindering access to some areas, complicating efforts to contain the virus.
According to Wam, Dr. Catherine Smallwood, WHO Incident Manager in the DRC, reported that the country has recorded 9,765 Ebola cases so far, with nearly half, 4,727, resulting in death. Additionally, 30,000 contacts are being monitored each day over a three-week period. She noted that a positive outcome is that 2,600 people in the DRC have survived Ebola.
WHO has called for increased funding, medical and logistical support, stronger local response capabilities, and faster detection, especially in areas affected by conflict, displacement, and food insecurity. The organization also urged countries in the region to enhance epidemiological surveillance and health screening at border crossings, while advising against any restriction of travel to, or trade with, affected countries.
