At least 10 students have died from Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo), as the outbreak continues to spread across several provinces.
Health and education authorities in Ituri province confirmed 25 Ebola cases among students at different schools. Of those infected, 10 have died and seven are receiving treatment.
According to Africanews, provincial authorities released the figures on Thursday, October 15.
The deaths have raised concerns about the safety of students and teachers following the reopening of schools for the new academic year.
Ebola outbreak affects schools in Ituri
The Ebola outbreak has affected several schools in Ituri, a province in eastern DR Congo.
Education officials in Bunia, the provincial capital, confirmed the student infections and deaths.
Schools reopened more than a month ago. However, the virus continues to pose a threat to students and local communities.
Meanwhile, seven infected students remain under medical care.
The report did not provide details about the condition of the remaining students among the 25 confirmed cases.
Authorities urge schools to strengthen safety measures
A provincial education official has called on schools to follow health guidelines and use protective equipment correctly.
The aim is to reduce the risk of Ebola spreading among students, teachers and school staff.
Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of an infected person who has symptoms. It can also spread through contaminated materials.
However, the virus does not spread through ordinary airborne transmission like measles.
Early detection, isolation and appropriate medical care are important in controlling outbreaks.
WHO warns Ebola outbreak is expanding
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo continues to expand.
In a situation report released on Wednesday, October 14, WHO’s Regional Office for Africa said the outbreak was spreading to new areas.
According to the report cited by Africanews, more than 65 health zones across eight provinces have been affected.
The outbreak has also seen an increase in reported cases and deaths.
As a result, health authorities face growing pressure to contain infections and protect vulnerable communities.
DR Congo faces growing public health concerns
DR Congo has experienced several Ebola outbreaks over the years.
The disease can cause severe illness and may be fatal. However, early treatment and supportive medical care can improve survival.
Health authorities continue to stress the importance of following official guidance and identifying suspected cases quickly.
For schools in affected areas, preventing further transmission remains a major concern.
The latest student deaths highlight the challenges facing communities as DR Congo works to contain the outbreak.