Ebola defeated 11 times in Congo. WHO: may it also be an example for Covid

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November 18, 2020 Congolese health minister Eteni Longondo proclaimed the defeat of the eleventh Ebola epidemic in the history of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

"On this Wednesday, November 18, 2020, I am delighted to solemnly declare the end of the eleventh Ebola virus outbreak in the equator province," the minister told the press.

Since its appearance on June 1, there have been 55 deaths from 119 confirmed and 11 probable cases, the World Health Organization said.

Today marks the end of the eleventh epidemic "in the country, the WHO writes in a note," almost six months after the first cases were reported in the province of the Equator.

The outbreak occurred in communities scattered among dense rainforests and crowded urban areas, creating logistical challenges "," overcome thanks to the leadership of the government and local communities, supported by WHO and its partners. "

WHO stresses that over 40,000 people at high risk, using an innovative cold storage system to keep the drug at temperatures as low as -80 degrees.

and difficult to access communities demonstrates what is possible when science and solidarity come together, "said Matshidiso Moeti, WHO regional director for Africa." The technology used to keep the Ebola vaccine at extremely low temperatures will be useful when carrying a Covid vaccine- 19 in Africa.

Dealing with Ebola in parallel with Covid-19 has not been easy, but much of the skills we have built are transferable, "he added.

" As the 11th epidemic is over, it is necessary to continue to monitor and maintain strong surveillance as potential flare-ups are possible in the months to come.

In this regard, WHO and other partners are currently conducting important actions to improve critical operational capabilities in the province of Equateur, including training frontline workers, "WHO points out.

" The end of this epidemic serves as a reminder that governments and partners must continue to focus attention on other emergencies, even as the fight against Covid-19 persists.

More investment is needed to strengthen countries' core capacities in implementing the International Health Regulations.

Improving preparedness will lead to a better response to threats from epidemic-prone diseases and result in a lower social and economic impact, "the agency concludes.

" Congratulations to the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo, to the first line rescuers, to community and WHO for the African region for the end of the eleventh Ebola epidemic, which began 6 months ago.

This great achievement shows that together we can overcome any health challenge. ”Thus on Twitter the general secretary of the United Nations, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.