DRC Launches Trial of Experimental Ebola Treatments

The Democratic Republic of Congo has launched the first clinical trial of two experimental treatments for the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus as authorities step up efforts to contain the country’s outbreak.

The World Health Organization (WHO) said the trial began on Thursday with the enrolment of the first patient. Researchers will assess the effectiveness of the monoclonal antibody MBP134 and the antiviral drug remdesivir, both separately and in combination, to determine their ability to treat patients infected with the Bundibugyo strain.

Unlike the more common Zaire strain of the Ebola virus, there are currently no approved vaccines or treatments specifically developed for the Bundibugyo variant, making the study a significant step in efforts to improve patient care.

According to the WHO, the outbreak has recorded 1,406 confirmed cases and 438 confirmed deaths, while 208 patients have recovered since the virus was first detected in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the study is being led by the DRC’s National Institute for Biomedical Research with support from the WHO and other international partners. He added that all participants will receive comprehensive medical care and continuous monitoring throughout the trial.

Health officials said the study could help identify effective treatments for the Bundibugyo strain and strengthen preparedness for future Ebola outbreaks if the therapies prove to be safe and effective.

SOURCE: AFP