Number of Ebola survivors in Congo tops 1,000

The number of Ebola survivors from the ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) topped 1,000, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The survival rate is largely due to an increase in the amount of medical interventions.

“The recent introduction of new medical interventions continues to lead to more Ebola survivors, many of whom are now caring for others with the virus,” CDC Director Robert R. Redfield said. “The survivors stepping forward are providing a deeper understanding of the Ebola virus, and they are performing a critical role in their communities, helping to bring this outbreak to an end.”

Also, the use of new investigational Ebola treatments and vaccinations have helped patients survive this deadly disease. Further, these measures have helped prevent illness in others.

Recently, the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) invested $14 million toward the development of an investigational Ebola treatment.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar co-hosted a session at the 74th United Nations General Assembly in September for the regional ministers of health on Ebola Preparedness and Response.

“This outbreak cannot be stopped without close and committed cooperation among all stakeholders: the nations in the region, partner nations from around the world, the U.N. and the WHO, and nongovernmental partners like NGOs, faith communities, and industry,” Azar said.