Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo sparks global alert
Armed conflicts and lack of vaccines hinder epidemic control
The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is experiencing a new Ebola outbreak, which has already accounted for more than 2,500 deaths in three months. The disease spreads amid armed conflicts between the army and rebel militias, hampering medical assistance and virus containment.
Ebola outbreak in the DRC
According to the United Nations, this is the 17th Ebola epidemic in the country, with an estimated death every 30 minutes. So far, 4,945 cases and 2,325 deaths have been recorded since May 15, when the government declared an emergency.
Conflicts as the main obstacle
Armed conflicts between the March 23 Movement (M23) and other militias, allegedly funded by Rwanda, impede mobility and access to affected areas. The closure of Goma airport, the main humanitarian aid route, in January 2025 further worsened the situation.
Bundibugyo virus without a specific vaccine
The agent responsible is the Bundibugyo virus, for which there is no specific vaccine or treatment. The World Health Organization recommends the Ervebo vaccine, developed for another type of Ebola, but its use has not yet been tested in the local population.
Scientific advances and therapeutic challenges
International researchers are studying the persistence of the virus in the brain using human brain organoids. The study showed Ebola replication for up to 120 days, with production of infectious particles and prolonged inflammation. Among treatment candidates, the monoclonal antibodies MBP134 and maftivimab, as well as the antiviral remdesivir, stand out, although efficacy in patients has yet to be proven.
International community reaction
In a speech at the Angelus, Pope Leo XIV called for an international response involving local communities. "In my prayers, I often remember the Democratic Republic of Congo, especially in light of the spread of the Ebola epidemic, which is sadly taking many lives," he said.
Prospects for epidemic control
The WHO estimates that contamination could be controlled in three months, but warns that this does not mean the end of the health crisis. The presence of militias, the displacement of 7 million people internally and 1 million abroad, as well as the lack of advanced research centers, continue to hinder surveillance and treatment.
With information from Folha de S.Paulo, Gazeta do Povo, Correio Braziliense.
Source: Folha de S.Paulo, Gazeta do Povo, Correio Braziliense