In the latest Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, children are more likely to die than adults, often due to a lack of medication and information on treating young patients.
The current Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been devastating, with over 3,000 deaths since mid-May. Almost half of those infected are expected to die, with a particularly high mortality rate for children under five, exceeding 60% according to a recent commentary by Doctors Without Borders.
The EBO-PEP study, which began mid-July, is examining an experimental antiviral drug called obeldesivir. However, children under 30 kilograms and 12 years old or younger were not included in the original study. Protocols are being developed to include children over 20 kilograms, but those under 20 kilograms, roughly six years old or younger, will not be included in the treatment. An alternative drug, remdesivir, is available but difficult to administer during an outbreak.
Why it matters
Children in the Democratic Republic of Congo face higher mortality rates in the Ebola outbreak due to limited treatment options and challenges in their care.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Future inclusion of younger children in the EBO-PEP study and the effectiveness of alternative treatments for those under 20 kilograms.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.