The World Health Organisation has declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda a public health emergency of international concern. Kenya has responded by activating its emergency preparedness measures. The Bundibugyo strain has caused 80 deaths so far.
The World Health Organisation issued the declaration on Sunday after the outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, led to 80 fatalities and 246 suspected infections in Ituri province of the Democratic Republic of Congo as of Saturday.
Uganda has reported two confirmed cases and one death in Kampala linked to cross-border travel. Health officials note that the strain has no approved vaccine and carries a potential fatality rate of up to 50 per cent.
Kenya's Ministry of Health has formed a National Ebola Preparedness Team and placed the National Public Health Emergency Operations Centre on high alert. Screening has been intensified at airports and border points.
The organisation Doctors Without Borders described the situation as extremely concerning and is preparing a large-scale response. The WHO has advised affected countries to strengthen surveillance while avoiding border closures.
