DRC Says Ebola Outbreak Has Reached Its Peak

Health authorities report slower spread, but warn that the fight is not over

The Democratic Republic of Congo says the country’s latest Ebola outbreak may have reached its peak, after health officials recorded a decline in the number of new infections.

Health Minister Samuel Roger Kamba said new daily cases have fallen from about 120 to around 80. Some health zones have also gone more than three weeks without recording a new case.

However, the situation remains serious.

The outbreak, which began in May, has spread across several provinces. More than 7,200 cases and 3,475 deaths had been recorded by September 14, according to the country’s health ministry.

The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. Health workers are using vaccination and other measures to slow the spread, while clinical trials are also taking place.

But health experts are warning against declaring victory too early. Conflict, population movement and weaknesses in health surveillance are making the response more difficult.

Monafrika’s Take

A drop in infections is good news, but this is not the time to relax.

The DRC needs continued international support, strong disease monitoring and proper care for affected communities.

Africa has seen how quickly a health emergency can cross borders. The safest victory is one that is completed, not one that is announced too early.