Democratic Republic of Congo — Ekhbary News Agency
Ebola patients and medical staff fled a hospital in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo after an angry crowd attacked the facility, a health worker told Reuters. The incident, following the death of a patient, underscores the severe challenges in containing the deadly outbreak amidst deep community mistrust and persistent insecurity.
Hospital Stormed After Patient's Death
Relatives of a deceased woman were part of the mob that stormed Nyakunde Hospital in Ituri province on Wednesday, throwing stones and damaging the perimeter fence. François Berocan Uderos, a medical biologist at the hospital, explained the woman died after developing severe anaemia during childbirth. Her family's offer to donate blood was refused due to Ebola protocols, which prohibit transfusions during an outbreak. The attack began shortly after her death, leading to the escape of several of the up to ten Ebola patients receiving treatment.
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Escalating Security Concerns Hinder Response
The medical team evacuated, and the hospital's generator ceased functioning, leaving remaining patients without care. This event highlights the formidable obstacles faced by health authorities in eastern Congo, where community resistance and instability frequently disrupt treatment efforts. Samaritan's Purse, an aid group operating an adjacent Ebola treatment center, also evacuated its staff due to deteriorating conditions. Ken Isaacs, the group's vice president, confirmed their withdrawal, citing roadblocks and safety concerns. For what it's worth, the ongoing violence has also fueled protests and strike threats from health workers demanding better pay and security. Indeed, the repeated targeting of health facilities risks undermining critical public health initiatives and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region. Congo's 17th Ebola outbreak has recorded 2,073 confirmed cases and 796 deaths. The army has launched an investigation into the unrest.
