An outbreak of the Bundibugyo species of Ebola began in early May and spread across eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo and into neighbouring Uganda. There are fears the outbreak could cross into South Sudan. By 25 June, the DRC reported more than 1,200 confirmed cases and 321 deaths; Uganda reported 20 confirmed cases and two deaths.
Bundibugyo causes a generally less severe illness than the Zaire strain and can show more subtle bleeding, which delayed detection. There is no licensed vaccine or specific cure yet. Response relies on quick case finding, isolating the sick, protecting health workers and safe burials to break chains of transmission.
Difficult words
- outbreak — a sudden start of many disease cases
- confirm — show that something is trueconfirmed
- strain — a type or variation of a virus
- isolate — separate sick people to stop spreadisolating
- transmission — the process of infection moving between people
- vaccine — a medicine that helps prevent an infection
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why is isolating sick people important during an outbreak?
- How can people help protect health workers?
- Why are safe burials mentioned as part of the response?
Related articles
FDA approves bemotrizinol for US sunscreens
The Food and Drug Administration approved the sunscreen ingredient bemotrizinol for use in the United States. The ingredient blocks UVA and UVB rays; when it appears in products will depend on reformulation, testing and marketing by companies.
Experimental vaccine gives lasting protection in mice against CCHF
A new mouse study reports an experimental vaccine that produced rapid protection and antibodies that lasted up to 18 months. Researchers say a booster strengthened and extended immune responses and plan manufacturing steps before human trials.
