Health officials in the Democratic Republic of Congo are investigating what appears to be a new Ebola outbreak that has already claimed 15 lives. Authorities report 28 people showing symptoms, with most of the deaths occurring in the locality of Boulapé in southern Kasai province.
The country’s health minister says the severity is clear, as more than half of those affected have died. The first confirmed case is a 34-year-old pregnant woman. Other suspected cases are still under review.
Symptoms reported include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and heavy bleeding, prompting a swift response to contain the spread. Four health-care workers are among those being monitored.
Teams from the World Health Organization and Congo’s own rapid response units are on the ground to strengthen surveillance, improve infection control, and provide critical supplies such as protective gear and laboratory equipment. Stocks of treatments and the Ervebo Ebola vaccine are already in place to support containment efforts.
Ebola spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids such as blood, vomit, or semen. While rare, the illness is severe and often deadly if not controlled quickly.