By Jean-Pierre A.
Research are progressing in the fight against the ongoing Ebola virus disease outbreak in the DRC. Four vaccine candidates against the Bundibugyo strain are currently undergoing clinical trials and could be available in about three months, revealed Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Executive Director of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Health Emergencies Programme, on Thursday in Bunia.
According to the WHO official, research is advancing at an encouraging pace thanks to the mobilisation of international scientific partners.
“The clinical trials of the four vaccines are proceeding satisfactorily. If the results remain in line with expectations, we could have these vaccines available in about three months,” stated Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu. on Thursday.
While awaiting the results of the research, the WHO emphasizes the importance of maintaining standard prevention measures, including early detection of cases, contact tracing, and safe and dignified burials.
“Vaccines represent immense hope, but the response continues today with the tools we already have. Community vigilance remains essential,” the WHO official added.
According to the latest official data, the Democratic Republic of Congo has 1,759 confirmed cases, 600 deaths, and nearly 750 recoveries since the start of this 17th epidemic, of which Ituri remains the epicenter.
Meanwhile ,Ebola has spread to Kisangani, the third largest city in Eastern DRC, the capital of Tshopo Province. WHO also said the disease is spreading largely undetected. The Scale of the outbreak could be two to four times larger than data shows.
“Eighty percent of the… new patients confirmed are coming outside of known contact lists” in the heart of the outbreak in Bunia, Ituri province, Chikwe Ihekweazu told Reuters in an interview late on Thursday.
In areas with fewer cases, like North Kivu province, almost all new cases are coming from the contact lists, he added, a sign of some progress.
