Oxfam Mounts Ebola Response in DRC Following International Health Emergency

Oxfam International reported that it is mounting an emergency response in the Democratic Republic of Congo after the World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The outbreak has recorded over 400 suspected cases and 89 deaths. [1]

A local doctor in the Mongwalu Health Zone in Ituri reported community deaths and noted 15 suspected cases were placed in isolation in a single day, according to Oxfam International. The organisation warned that home deaths indicate a higher number of undetected cases in the area. [1]

Recent funding cuts to foreign aid left the region exposed and hampered initial detection efforts, Oxfam and Politico reported. Active conflict in the region is further complicating healthcare delivery and response operations, Politico and The Independent added. [1][2][3][4]

Ebola virus disease symptoms typically manifest within eight to ten days of exposure, starting with fever, severe fatigue, and muscle pain before progressing to severe gastrointestinal issues. [6]