DRC Begins Countdown to End of Ebola Outbreak
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Major Milestone in DRC’s Ebola Battle
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has reached a significant turning point in its fight against Ebola virus disease as the last patient from the recent outbreak was discharged from hospital. The patient’s recovery marks the start of a 42-day countdown the official monitoring period required before health authorities can declare the outbreak over.
No New Cases Since September
The outbreak, which began in early September in the Bulape health district of Kauai Province, has seen 53 confirmed and 11 suspected infections. Nineteen patients have fully recovered, and no new cases have been reported since September 25. If the country records no further cases during the countdown, the outbreak will be officially declared over in early December 2025.
Swift Response in Hard-to-Reach Areas
Health officials faced unique challenges containing the outbreak in Bulape a remote area with limited infrastructure. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the DRC’s Ministry of Health established a 32-bed treatment center in record time to provide life-saving care and stop the spread of the virus.
Vaccination Efforts Strengthen Protection
In a proactive measure, around 35,000 people in the affected region were vaccinated against Ebola. Health teams remain on the ground to ensure rapid detection and response if any new cases emerge during the observation period.
Hope for a Declaration of the End
Health authorities and international partners are cautiously optimistic. If no new infections are confirmed, DRC will officially announce the end of the outbreak in early December bringing relief to communities that have faced multiple Ebola waves in recent years.
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