According to international health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the outbreak of Bundibugyo virus disease (Ebola) poses a major public health challenge for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with more than 1,200 confirmed cases and over 360 deaths, primarily in the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu. The case fatality rate is estimated at between 26% and 28%, with Ituri at the epicentre of the outbreak, accounting for more than 90% of reported cases. The authorities are facing significant operational challenges due to the deterioration of healthcare infrastructure.
To contain and prevent the further spread of the outbreak, the World Health Organization is implementing the Continental Preparedness and Response Plan (CPRP), aimed at limiting transmission and addressing the lack of approved vaccines or specific treatment regimens for the Bundibugyo strain. The plan also supports the restoration of damaged health infrastructure and the protection of frontline healthcare workers.
Particular emphasis is being placed on accelerating containment measures in areas with active cases and in neighbouring Uganda, while preparedness efforts are being significantly scaled up in ten countries considered to be at high risk.
In relation to cross-border population movements, countries are encouraged to implement enhanced health screening and systematic surveillance at points of entry, while explicitly avoiding unnecessary trade or travel restrictions that could cause economic hardship. In the area of research and development, efforts are also underway to accelerate clinical trials for promising candidate vaccines and treatments, while making use of interim medical countermeasure networks in close cooperation with international organisations such as Gavi and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI).
Against this backdrop, Greece has contributed €100,000 to the World Health Organization (WHO) in support of the Continental Preparedness and Response Plan (CPRP) for Africa.