Russian Embassy in South Africa has said that scientists in Russia have developed a new vaccine against the latest strain of Ebola virus. Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko announced the development. Scientists said the vaccine may also work against the rare Bundibugyo strain linked to recent outbreaks in Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda a global public health emergency on the 17th of this month under International Health Regulations.
Recently, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) also issued a Standard Operating Procedure for airlines following the World Health Organization’s declaration as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The DGCA said airlines operating connectivity with Uganda and Congo are required to ensure mandatory filing and collection of self-declaration forms before passengers disembark.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention also declared the outbreak a continental health emergency. WHO has advised countries to strengthen screening of travellers arriving from affected areas and avoid travel to places where the Bundibugyo virus has been detected. Neighbouring countries, including South Sudan, are considered at high risk of infection spread.
Ebola is a serious viral disease with a high death rate. Currently, there are no officially approved vaccines or treatments specifically for the Bundibugyo strain.
