The World Health Organization has noted that a total of 650 suspected cases, including 144 deaths, linked to the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda as of May 21.

 

On Sunday, the WHO declared a public health emergency of international concern, but said it was not at pandemic level.

In view of the evolving health situation, the India-Africa Forum Summit, which was scheduled to begin in New Delhi on May 28, has been postponed.

 

Earlier, the Indian government issued an advisory on May 21 for people residing in, travelling to, or returning from African countries affected by Ebola Virus Disease. No cases have been reported in India so far.

 

The World Health Organization (WHO) said it could take up to nine months before a vaccine against this particular species of Ebola is ready.  WHO advisor Dr Vasee Moorthy said two possible “candidate vaccines” against the Bundibugyo strain are being developed, but neither had gone through clinical trials yet.

 

A bat-borne viral disease spreads by contact with body fluids of an infected person or animal or contaminated objects. On rare instances, the virus was observed to be airborne.

 

The incubation period ranges from two to 21 days. Initial symptoms can appear suddenly and include fever, fatigue, weakness, muscle pain, headache and sore throat. These may later progress to vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, rash, and impaired kidney and liver function.

 

According to the WHO, the average fatality rate for Ebola is around 50 per cent, although past outbreaks have recorded mortality rates ranging from 25 to 90 per cent.