WHO Sees 'Encouraging Signs' in DR Congo Ebola Fight

The Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to spread, but health officials are noting positive developments in the response effort.

World Health Organisation (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted these early achievements during a press briefing in Geneva on Wednesday.

“We are starting to see encouraging signs that we’re gaining ground,” Tedros stated.

WHO sees progress in DR Congo Ebola outbreak (News Central TV) — WHO sees progress in DR Congo Ebola outbreak. Credit: Reuters

He noted that transmission rates are declining in Ituri province, the outbreak’s epicentre, while South Kivu has recorded no new cases since May

The health agency attributes these improvements to stronger community engagement, which has accelerated trials for treatments and post-exposure prophylaxis.

Authorities also plan to launch vaccine trials in the coming weeks across the seven affected northern and eastern provinces.

Hunger Complicates Ebola Fight in Eastern DR Congo

Since the DRC declared this 17th Ebola outbreak in mid-May, the virus has caused over 3,500 deaths among more than 7,200 recorded cases in regions destabilised by armed conflict.

Despite encouraging signs, WHO leaders warned against complacency.

Tedros emphasised that the epidemic continues to grow and kill, while WHO Director Maria Van Kerkhove cautioned that response teams still face months of hard work ahead.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.