Ebola Fears Rise After 30 Deaths in Congo Displacement Camp

At least 30 people have died since early May in the Kigonze displacement camp in the city of Bunia, located in northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, in what local authorities describe as an unprecedented situation, raising concerns about a possible spread of Ebola.

Reuters reported on Saturday, June 20, that some of the victims had been infected with Ebola.

However, because families and patients have refused medical testing, authorities have not been able to confirm the exact cause of death in all cases.

Camp officials and aid organizations said the victims showed symptoms including fever, headaches, and vomiting signs consistent with Ebola infection.

Desire Grodya Bapi, the camp’s spokesperson, said that 10 people had been buried in the camp during the past week alone, whereas the monthly death rate had previously been much lower.

Reports indicate that overcrowding, poor sanitation, and a lack of basic services have worsened conditions in the camp.

Meanwhile, humanitarian organizations have warned that a sharp decline in international aid particularly for water, sanitation, and healthcare services has increased the risk of further outbreaks of infectious diseases among displaced people.