The World Health Organization (WHO) has significantly revised its data on the Ebola outbreak in central Africa, reporting a sharp decrease in suspected cases from 906 to 116 as of May 31. The update comes as the number of confirmed cases rises to 330, with 48 deaths recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and nine confirmed cases in neighboring Uganda, including one fatality.
Revised Figures Explained
WHO spokesman Christian Lindmeier clarified that the reduction in suspected cases is due to rigorous testing. Many individuals initially classified as suspected cases were later found to have other diseases with similar early symptoms, such as malaria, meningitis, or typhoid fever. “Anybody who gets picked up by surveillance or presents themselves in a health facility with any symptoms that could be Ebola-like is counted as a suspected case in the outbreak, pending testing,” Lindmeier explained. Once tested, many are ruled out and removed from the suspected cases list.
Confirmed Cases and Fatalities
As of May 31, the DRC has reported 321 confirmed cases, including 48 deaths. In Uganda, nine confirmed cases have been registered, with one death. The WHO also noted that six individuals confirmed to have had Ebola have recovered. However, no vaccine or approved treatment is available for the Bundibugyo strain responsible for the outbreak, making prevention measures crucial.
Outbreak Background
The outbreak was declared on May 15 in Ituri province, a conflict-hit region in northeastern DRC. The virus is believed to have been spreading undetected for weeks before the declaration due to its initial symptoms resembling flu, malaria, or typhoid. The Bundibugyo strain spreads through close contact and bodily fluids, causing a fatal hemorrhagic fever.
Data Fluctuations
Lindmeier emphasized that the number of confirmed cases will continue to climb as testing progresses, while suspected cases will fluctuate. The WHO’s previous figures included 223 suspected deaths, but this category has been removed due to uncertainty. Many of those deaths occurred earlier, and remains could not be exhumed for testing.
Prevention and Response
Efforts to contain the outbreak rely on preventive measures, including surveillance, contact tracing, and public health education. The WHO and local health authorities are working to manage the situation in one of the world’s poorest countries, which is home to over 100 million people.
