ON ALERT

Experts Concerned That Ebola Outbreak May Spread to Large Cities

The disease may have spread to a port city in the DRC, and two health workers might be infected.

Health experts are concerned that an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo may spread to larger cities, according to STAT News. So far, at least 21 people have exhibited symptoms of Ebola, including 17 who died. There have been two confirmed cases of the devastating virus. Investigations indicate that cases may have been found “in several locations” dating back to early 2018. Two heath workers may also be infected, WHO’s top Ebola expert told the outlet. While the outbreak occurred in a town that is relatively isolated, experts are concerned that there may be cases in a port town called Bikoro, which connects the Congo and Ubangi rivers. That opens up the possibility that the disease will travel to cities, making it much harder to contain. “Our top priority is to get to Bikoro to work alongside the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and partners to reduce the loss of life and suffering related to this new Ebola virus disease outbreak,” Dr. Peter Salama, WHO deputy director-general, Emergency Preparedness and Response, has said in a statement.