Protect Uganda-DRC Border Communities from Ebola

Dear Donor,

There are encouraging signs emerging from some of the areas most heavily affected by Ebola, but the latest situation also reminds us why vigilance must continue.

WHO and Africa CDC report that transmission has been declining in some parts of Ituri, the principal epicenter of the outbreak. However, transmission remains heterogeneous, with increases in some other health zones, particularly in North Kivu.

The DRC had recorded 7,475 confirmed cases and 3,605 deaths by 16 September, demonstrating the seriousness of the epidemic.

Development Alert views the encouraging decline in some areas as a reason to strengthen—not reduce—preparedness.

When transmission begins to decline, communities can become less attentive to health messages. Our work therefore continues to promote hygiene, early reporting, community surveillance and responsible health-seeking behavior.

We also support continued engagement with community leaders and volunteers so that preparedness remains active even when fewer cases are being reported.

This is particularly important because WHO warns that improved surveillance and contact tracing can lead to additional cases being detected even while response efforts are making progress.

Development Alert therefore encourages communities to understand that increased case detection does not necessarily mean prevention efforts have failed. Better surveillance can provide a clearer picture of where transmission remains.

We are grateful to donors who help us sustain community preparedness through changing phases of an outbreak.