The World Health Organization (WHO) has determined that the Ebola disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda constitutes a public health emergency of international concern, though it falls short of the criteria for a pandemic emergency. In reaching this determination, WHO assessed the risk to human health, the potential for international spread and the likelihood of interference with international travel.
As of 16 May, WHO had confirmed eight laboratory cases, 246 suspected cases and 80 suspected deaths in Ituri Province of the DRC across at least three health zones – Bunia, Rwampara and Mongbwalu. Two laboratory-confirmed cases, including one death, were subsequently reported in Kampala, Uganda, on 15 and 16 May. These cases involved individuals who had travelled from the DRC and had no apparent epidemiological link to one another.
No approved treatment or vaccine
WHO described the outbreak as extraordinary, given that no approved treatments or vaccines specific to the Bundibugyo virus currently exist. The fatality rate associated with the Bundibugyo strain is estimated at between 25 and 40 percent, according to Médecins Sans Frontières, which is preparing a large-scale response in Ituri Province.
Significant uncertainties remain regarding the true number of infected people and the full geographic spread of the outbreak. WHO has acknowledged limited understanding of the epidemiological links between known and suspected cases and has warned that all available indicators point towards a potentially far larger outbreak than is currently being detected. Ongoing insecurity, a humanitarian crisis, high population mobility, the urban and semi-urban nature of current hotspots and a large network of informal healthcare facilities are all compounding the risk of further spread.
What this means for Australians
While the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care has assessed the current risk to the Australian public as low, WHO’s declaration of a public health emergency of international concern triggers heightened biosecurity monitoring at Australian borders. The Department of Home Affairs and the Australian Border Force have protocols in place to screen travellers arriving from affected regions, with health officials positioned to respond rapidly to any suspected cases.
Australians with plans to travel to the DRC or Uganda are strongly advised to reconsider their need to do so, in line with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s current travel advisories for both countries. Those already in affected regions are urged to avoid contact with suspected cases, seek guidance from local health authorities and register with the Australian Embassy or nearest consular post. Ebola spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person and poses no risk through casual contact or air transmission, meaning the threat to Australians with no direct exposure to the affected regions remains minimal.
Image: Michael Lunanga
