Ebola outbreak declared global health emergency. Latest updates for NC
The World Health Organization declared an outbreak of the Ebola virus Bundibugyo in the Democratic Republic of Congo a public health emergency of international concern on May 17. UNC-Chapel Hill researchers, who played a key role in the 2014 Ebola response, say the risk to North Carolinians remains low.
FULL STORY: Ebola declared a health emergency of international concern. Is NC at risk?
Here are key takeaways:
- As of May 20, 51 cases of Bundibugyo Ebola have been confirmed in the DRC, with another 600 cases and 139 deaths suspected, according to the World Health Organization.
- There are no existing treatments or vaccines for Bundibugyo, which kills about 30% of those infected. Without treatment, Ebola can kill up to 90% of patients, according to the CDC.
- UNC is one of 13 U.S. hospital systems designated as Regional Emerging Special Pathogens Treatment Centers, prepared to accept Americans exposed to emerging diseases.
- Dr. David Wohl, a UNC researcher, said cuts to USAID and a delayed WHO notification may have hindered the response, but North Carolinians face no risk of community spread due to strong U.S. healthcare infrastructure.
- Wohl and Dr. William Fischer II launched the first clinical trial for Ebola treatment in Liberia in late 2014 and continue researching long-term effects on survivors through UNC Project-Liberia.
The summary points above were compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists. The full story in the link at top was reported, written and edited entirely by journalists.
Eva Flowe
The Charlotte Observer