DRC Ebola Cases Rise to 676 as Virus Spreads Faster
An almost month-long Ebola outbreak in northeast Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), caused by the unusual Bundibugyo virus strain, is about to enter an even more dangerous stage as the disease spreads into a densely populated displacement camp. As of May 15, 676 confirmed cases, with 136 fatalities, have been reported in Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu Provinces. WHO reports increasing transmission in previously unaffected areas due to the movement of people and inadequate reaction by local health authorities. The response is hampered by a combination of rebel violence and poor transportation, as there is a shortage of isolation beds and monitoring facilities necessary to stop the spread of the infection. There are fears that densely populated displacement camps will lead to quick spreading and potential panic among the local population. Neighboring Uganda, where 19 cases were reported, is growing worried as well.








