Around 330 children succumb to Ebola outbreak in Congo; UNICEF expresses concern
Tragically, about330 children have lost their lives due to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has expressed deep concern over this health crisis; children account for one-third of the confirmed Ebola deaths in the region.
According to UNICEF, children under the age of five have been the most severely affected, with a mortality rate twice that of adults. The disease has led to a significant decline in childhood vaccinations and access to health services, as people avoid visiting health centers for treatment due to fear of infection.
Major Crisis for the Health System
John Agbor, UNICEF’s Representative in the DRC, stated that the Ebola outbreak is severely impacting the entire healthcare system. It is causing major disruptions in the treatment of malaria, diarrhea, and other treatable illnesses—conditions that are major causes of child mortality.
The medical aid organization 'Doctors Without Borders' has warned that the situation in eastern DRC is now more critical than ever. The dangerous disease is spreading rapidly, with no signs of slowing down at present.
Record Surge in Cases
According to reports, 3,973 confirmed cases of Ebola have been recorded in the DRC since the outbreak was declared on May 15. Of these, 1,801 people have tragically died, creating an atmosphere of fear and panic across the country.
Health authorities and security forces are maintaining close surveillance in affected areas to curb the spread of Ebola. Round-the-clock efforts are underway to identify suspected cases and bring this deadly outbreak under control as quickly as possible.
Suspected Case on Boat Stopped in Kinshasa
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, health officials intercepted a passenger boat near Kinshasa after a passenger who had been on board died. The alert was issued due to strong suspicions that the deceased passenger had exhibited symptoms of Ebola infection. Health Minister Roger Kamba stated that the suspected patient, who disembarked from a boat in Mongala province, exhibited symptoms of fever and diarrhea. Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya said that all passengers on the boat are being tested with the help of a mobile laboratory.