Ebola cases top 2,000 as outbreak accelerates
The World Health Organization confirmed that the Ebola outbreak in northeastern Congo has now exceeded 2,000 cases, with 754 deaths recorded since the outbreak was declared in March. The case fatality rate stands at approximately 38%, lower than previous outbreaks due to the availability of vaccines, but still alarmingly high. The virus has spread to previously unaffected health zones, raising fears of urban transmission.
Health workers strike over unpaid wages
Workers at Ebola treatment centers in Ituri province went on strike this week, demanding back pay and bonuses that have gone unpaid for months. At Rwampara General Hospital, staff refused to enter isolation wards, leaving patients with reduced care. The walkout threatens to reverse gains made in containing the outbreak. The Congolese government has pledged to address the payment issues, but workers say promises have been broken before.
US aid worker evacuated to Germany
An American aid worker infected with Ebola arrived in Berlin for treatment on Tuesday after being evacuated from Congo. The Trump administration has barred Americans infected with Ebola from traveling to the U.S. on commercial flights, forcing the patient to be flown to Germany instead. The decision has drawn criticism from global health experts who say it undermines international cooperation in outbreak response.