Ebola Spread Fast, Says WHO.
The Ebola virus is spreading quickly in the Democratic Republic of Congo. There have been over 2,000 confirmed cases and 800 deaths. Experts believe the actual number of infections is much higher than reported.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that the number of Ebola cases in the DRC is significantly underestimated. Official reports show 2,267 cases and 893 deaths, but the WHO thinks this number could be 2 to 4 times greater. A virologist, Christoph Steininger, says many infections are going undetected because of poor healthcare and bad hygiene. This makes it difficult to control the virus. The ongoing insecurity in the region also complicates efforts to respond to the outbreak.
Summarized from the sources above. Read the originals for the full story.
Highlights
Ebola Spread Rapidly
The Ebola virus is spreading very quickly in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Confirmed Cases Low
The officially reported number of Ebola cases is lower than reality.
WHO Estimates Higher Numbers
The WHO believes the actual number of cases is 2 to 4 times higher.
Undetected Infections Exist
A virologist reports a large number of undetected Ebola infections.
Challenges in Tracking Cases
Poor healthcare and hygiene make it difficult to track cases accurately.
Perspectives
- The Ebola virus is spreading quickly in the DRC.
- The WHO reports 2,267 confirmed cases and 893 deaths.
- There is ongoing insecurity in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- The WHO believes the reported number of cases is lower than reality.
France24 and the WHO report 2,267 confirmed cases and 893 deaths.
France24, WHO
Christoph Steininger believes the actual number of cases is 2 to 4 times higher.
New