UN agencies intensify Ebola fight in eastern DR Congo

The United Nations and its health partners have expanded emergency operations in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo following a worsening Ebola outbreak in the region.

The World Health Organisation said additional medical teams, protective equipment and treatment supplies had been sent to affected communities in Ituri Province, where health officials are tracking confirmed and suspected infections.

According to the agency, dozens of specialists have been deployed to support disease surveillance, laboratory testing, treatment and public awareness campaigns aimed at slowing the spread of the virus.

The latest outbreak has raised international concern because it involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment.

Health authorities said efforts to contain the disease are being complicated by insecurity and population displacement in parts of eastern Congo, areas that have experienced repeated armed conflict in recent years.

The WHO has also urged neighbouring countries to strengthen border screening and emergency preparedness measures to prevent cross border transmission.

UN agencies are working alongside Congolese health officials and humanitarian organisations to improve case detection, isolate suspected patients and educate residents on prevention measures.

Ebola is a severe viral disease spread through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. Symptoms include fever, weakness, vomiting and internal bleeding. The virus has caused several deadly outbreaks across Central and West Africa over the past decade.