No approved vaccine exists for the Bundibugyo virus driving the outbreak
The health ministry said in its latest update that 724 patients are currently in isolation and that it is intensifying response efforts in affected health zones. “Patient care and support capacities are consolidating, with 22 new recoveries recorded in 24 hours,” the ministry said. The 37 deaths recorded from Friday into Saturday were one of the highest totals reported.
The outbreak has spread to five provinces in eastern Congo, all in a region where rebel violence is rampant and security fears have restricted the response. Authorities said Saturday that at least 12 attacks on health facilities and teams — mostly fueled by skepticism and rumors — have been recorded since the outbreak was declared in mid-May. Many health workers have walked off their jobs in protest of non-payment, and at least 36 health workers infected with the virus have died.
The World Health Organization expressed concern last week that 80% of new cases are emerging from unknown transmission chains, a sign the outbreak is spreading faster than health officials can track despite an expanding response.