DRC Bans Mass Gatherings Over Ebola Outbreak Containment

TThe Democratic Republic of Congo has banned mass gatherings in Kinshasa and three other provinces as authorities intensify efforts to contain the country’s Ebola outbreak, the interior ministry announced on Monday. The directive, issued by Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani, suspends political meetings, public marches, demonstrations and other large gatherings in Kinshasa, Tshopo, Haut-Uele and Bas-Uele provinces. Although confirmed cases remain concentrated in Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu, the government said the restrictions are intended to reduce the risk of the virus spreading to neighbouring regions. Health authorities said the country has recorded 1,274 confirmed Ebola infections and 360 deaths since the outbreak was declared on May 15. The latest measures follow the introduction of a mandatory 21-day quarantine for travellers arriving from Ebola-affected areas. Last month, the government also suspended sporting events and other social activities in Ituri, the epicentre of the outbreak. Officials say the restrictions form part of broader public health measures to strengthen surveillance and limit transmission as response teams continue efforts to contain the virus. The World Health Organization has classified the outbreak as a public health emergency of international concern. The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, which has no approved vaccine or treatment, is responsible for the outbreak.

SOURCE: AA