WHO Calls for Additional Support to Combat Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo

Muscat: The World Health Organization (WHO) called for more support at all levels to combat the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as it continues to outpace the capacity to respond to it. "The outbreak is unfortunately still expanding beyond the capacity of the response," WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic said. "We need more support in terms of finances, but also other resources to scale up all areas of response." According to Oman News Agency, the country recorded 3,748 confirmed cases of Ebola, including 1,657 deaths, while 708 patients recovered from the disease. An additional 227 suspected cases had been identified, with a total of 17,000 contacts of the cases being monitored, and more than 80% of them undergoing daily testing. Local authorities in the country, in collaboration with the WHO and partners, continue to implement large-scale response measures. However, a significant increase in response activities is needed to move forward in combating the outbreak. The WHO reiterated the need to maintain heightened surveillance and preparedness measures, particularly given the continued movement of populations and the risk of cross-border transmission.