WHO Declares Public Health Emergency as Ebola Outbreak in Congo Claims 80 Lives
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is currently facing a severe Ebola outbreak in its eastern Ituri province, with at least 80 deaths reported. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the situation a 'public health emergency of international concern.' The outbreak, which involves the Bundibugyo virus strain, has been confirmed in three health zones, including the capital city of Bunia. Health workers are intensifying efforts to screen and trace contacts to contain the disease. The outbreak was first announced with 65 deaths and 246 suspected cases. The Bundibugyo virus, a less common strain, has previously caused outbreaks in Uganda and Congo. The current outbreak's suspected index case is a nurse who died in Bunia. The situation is complicated by the region's volatility and logistical challenges in delivering medical supplies. 
