Vaccination Campaign Launched Against Rapidly Spreading Ebola Outbreak in Congo

Health authorities in Congo began vaccinating the public on Thursday to slow down the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak in history. While the Ervebo vaccine is initially being used to protect healthcare workers, clinical trials are ongoing for a vaccine specifically licensed for the current outbreak.

Start of the Vaccination Campaign

Congo began vaccinating the public on Thursday as health authorities try to slow down the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak recorded in history. The Ervebo vaccine, which has proven effective against a different Ebola species in the past, is primarily being administered to healthcare workers.

Dimensions and Data of the Outbreak

According to government data, as of Tuesday, the country has recorded 5,713 confirmed cases, resulting in 2,744 deaths. The crisis, concentrated in the Ituri province, is known as the deadliest among the country's 17 previous Ebola outbreaks.

WHO Approval and Vaccine Doses

The World Health Organization approved 70,000 doses of the Ervebo vaccine for use in Congo last week. More than 50,000 doses have arrived in the country, and additional doses have been allocated for clinical trials.

Clinical Research and New Trials

The Oxford University Vaccine Group and Moderna have initiated Phase 1 human trials for new vaccines developed against the Bundibugyo virus.