The virus causing an outbreak in Congo, suspected of resulting in over 130 deaths, is less common than other viruses that cause Ebola. This complicates efforts due to the lack of specific treatments or vaccines. Dr. Celine Gounder, an infectious disease expert who treated patients during the 2014-2016 Ebola epidemic, noted, “There’s nothing even close to ready for clinical trials.” As a result, healthcare workers are returning to basic measures.
Vaccine Prospects and Challenges
Dr. Vasee Moorthy from the WHO indicated that the most promising vaccine for Bundibugyo might not be available for six to nine months. This underscores the need for effective interim measures.
Understanding Bundibugyo Virus
Bundibugyo, a rare virus species, has caused two prior outbreaks in the Congo River basin, as explained by Dr. Tom Ksiazek, a virologist at the University of Texas Medical Branch. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention first identified it in 2007.
Other Ebola-causing viruses include the Ebola virus (Zaire virus), Sudan virus, and the Taï Forest virus, the latter not known for large-scale outbreaks.
Transmission and Infection Risks
The virus spreads through contact with infected bodily fluids like sweat, blood, feces, or vomit. Healthcare workers and family members are at high risk. Dr. Gounder noted that medical staff often face infection and high mortality rates.
Comparative Lethality
Bundibugyo might be less lethal than the Ebola or Sudan viruses, with an estimated 30%-plus mortality rate, though precise data is limited due to few outbreaks, according to Gounder.
Patient Care Without Specific Treatments
In past Bundibugyo outbreaks, early detection allowed for a swift public health response. Protective gear, isolation of exposed individuals, and supportive medical care were key tactics that significantly reduced mortality. Providing patients with ample IV or oral fluids is crucial.
Current Containment Efforts
Health workers focus on isolating cases, tracing contacts, and educating the public on avoiding the virus. Safe burial practices are vital, as highlighted by Gounder, due to past outbreaks where individuals contracted the virus while preparing bodies for funerals.
Proper protective equipment for health workers remains critical. Lina Moses, an epidemiologist at Tulane University, emphasized public education, contact tracing, and quick testing as essential tools in the absence of vaccines.
She remarked, “Every single Ebola outbreak occurring in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been stopped.”
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Associated Press writers Mogomotsi Magome in Johannesburg and Jamey Keaten in Geneva contributed. The AP Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP oversees all content.