DRC, KASAI – Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo have declared a fresh Ebola outbreak in Kasai Province, with 28 suspected cases and 15 deaths, including four health workers.
The World Health Organization confirmed the outbreak after samples tested positive for Ebola Zaire on 3 September at the National Institute of Biomedical Research in Kinshasa. Officials warn case numbers may increase as transmission is ongoing.
Dr Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa, said, “We’re acting with determination to rapidly halt the spread of the virus and protect communities.” He stressed the importance of early containment to prevent cross-border spread.
A rapid response team, supported by WHO experts in epidemiology, laboratory science, and infection control, has been deployed to Kasai. Two tonnes of protective gear, medical supplies, and mobile laboratory equipment have also arrived in the province.
Health officials confirmed that 2,000 doses of the Ervebo Ebola vaccine are prepositioned in Kinshasa and will be moved quickly to Kasai to protect frontline workers and contacts. Vaccination remains a crucial barrier against further fatalities.
Nigeria’s health sector experts caution that situational ethics in disease management must guide preventive actions. Dr Akin Oyebanjo, a Lagos-based epidemiologist, explained that failure to adopt transparent communication and strict border screening could expose Nigeria to risks.
ALSO READ: MSF Raises Alarm Over Outbreak Of Cholera In Zamfara, Says 1500…
He added, “Nigeria must learn from past lapses during Ebola in 2014. Quick reporting, ethical responsibility from health workers, and public compliance are non-negotiable if we want to stay safe.”
Public health observers emphasize that Nigeria’s porous land borders with central African nations make vigilance crucial. The lessons from the 2014 outbreak, where a single imported case threatened Lagos, highlight the need for sustained preparedness.
If ethical lapses occur in information sharing or case management, analysts warn Nigeria could face severe economic, social, and political consequences, including loss of public trust in health institutions.
READALSO:https://www.afro.who.int/node/975
WHO statistics show Ebola has a fatality rate ranging between 25% and 90%. The DRC has recorded 15 outbreaks since 1976, making the current situation another reminder of how fragile regional health systems remain.
Nigeria’s government is urged to strengthen airport screenings, border surveillance, and cross-border collaboration with DRC to prevent Ebola from slipping into West Africa.