Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Three Red Cross Volunteers Die from Ebola in DR Congo Outbreak


(MENAFN) Three Red Cross volunteers have died from Ebola in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, marking some of the first known fatalities in the latest outbreak, according to a Saturday statement.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said it was “deeply saddened” by the deaths, confirming that the volunteers were working in the Mongbwalu area of Djugu Territory in Ituri province when they became infected.

The deceased were identified as Ajiko Chandiru Viviane, Sezabo Katanabo, and Alikana Udumusi Augustin, who died between May 5 and 16 while carrying out community-based humanitarian duties.

The organization said the volunteers likely contracted the virus while handling dead bodies during field operations carried out before the outbreak had been officially identified in the area.

It added that at the time of their work, local communities were unaware of the Ebola virus presence, making them among the earliest confirmed victims of the current outbreak.

The IFRC, along with the Congolese Red Cross and the International Committee of the Red Cross, said they remain committed to supporting response efforts and strengthening outbreak containment measures in affected regions.

MENAFN24052026000045017640ID1111160467



MENAFN

Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.

Search