WHO extends Ebola’s emergency status in DR Congo, admits ‘positive’ signs

UN health ncy extended global emergency status for Ebola outbreak in DR Congo but mitted that re have been “extremely positive” signs of a sharp decline in eastern Congo. During an Emergency Committee meeting, members unanimously vised that outbreak in DR Congo continues to be a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) under International Health Regulations (2005).

World Health Organisation (WHO), in a statement, said that Committee ackwledged revised risk assessment, putting risk as ‘high’ at national and regional levels, and ‘low’ at global level. UN ncy said Committee was concerned that withdrawal of PHEIC might have verse effects on response efforts through diminishing focus. 

'Potential for a much larger epidemic remains'

Speaking at press conference, WHO Director-General Tedros ham Ghebreyesus said that as long as re is a single case of Ebola in an area, potential for a much larger epidemic remains given lack of security and stability in eastern DR Congo. 

"neless, signs are extremely positive in eastern DR Congo and I hope that by time Emergency Committee reconvenes, we will be able to declare an end to outbreak,” hoped WHO chief.

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Ministry of Health of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), WHO Secretariat, and UN Ebola Emergency Response Coordinator me presentations at meeting. According to WHO, a total of 3431 cases were reported till February 10, of which 3308 were confirmed and 123 were probable.

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Committee vised DR Congo to strengn preparedness in n-affected provinces of DRC and strengn health system across country to respond to concurrent health emergencies. It also suggested sustaining political commitment and multisectoral coordination approach to response.

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(With ncy Inputs)