DR Congo begins experimental Ebola vaccination for frontline workers
About 50,000 workers in Ituri and North Kivu are targeted for vaccination, while the Ervebo jab’s protection against the Bundibugyo strain is assessed.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has begun giving frontline health workers the Ervebo vaccine in response to an Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo strain.
The rollout began in Bunia, the capital of Ituri province, with support from the World Health Organization and Doctors Without Borders. Health authorities said the programme would also target workers in North Kivu, where cases have been rising.
About 50,000 health and other frontline workers are expected to receive the vaccine. Its effectiveness against Bundibugyo Ebola will be monitored in 20,000 recipients for up to one year.
Ervebo was developed for the more common Zaire strain and is being used under a compassionate-use programme. There is no licensed vaccine or proven treatment specifically for the latest outbreak, and its effectiveness against Bundibugyo Ebola remains unknown.
WHO experts have cited early animal-trial data suggesting the vaccine could offer some protection. However, Doctors Without Borders has said there is no clear evidence the epidemic is under control, despite WHO officials pointing to signs that transmission may be slowing.
Local authorities reported at least 7,541 infections and 3,639 deaths since May, with 1,823 people recovering. Al Jazeera reported that the figures may change as the response continues.
