The Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has claimed the life of another healthcare worker after Dr Marie-France Shogogo died from complications of the disease in Beni, North Kivu Province.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) announced her death, expressing sadness over the loss of the young doctor and extending condolences to her family, colleagues and the wider medical community.
In a statement, the continental health agency said her death was a painful reminder of the need to protect frontline workers who continue to care for patients during disease outbreaks.
Dr Shogogo's death was reported on Wednesday, October 28, at an Ebola treatment centre in Beni, according to local media reports. She had graduated from the University of Goma's medical school three years earlier.
Her death adds to the toll among medical personnel responding to the outbreak, which has placed considerable pressure on healthcare services in eastern DRC.
The outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, a strain of Ebola that has continued to spread across several provinces in the country. The World Health Organization (WHO), in an update published on October 23, reported 9,704 confirmed cases and 4,687 deaths in the DRC as of October 20. The figures covered cases recorded across 66 health zones in eight provinces.
The outbreak has also spread beyond the DRC, with imported cases reported in countries including Kenya and Nigeria, prompting public health authorities to strengthen surveillance and response measures.
Healthcare workers remain central to efforts to identify infections, care for patients and prevent further transmission. However, their exposure to the virus makes protective equipment, adequate medical supplies, infection prevention measures and proper working conditions essential.
Africa CDC's message following Dr Shogogo's death has renewed attention on the risks faced by medical teams working in affected communities.
The agency paid tribute to the doctor and called for greater attention to the safety of those on the frontline of the Ebola response.
Her death is a loss to her family, colleagues and the medical profession, as health workers continue efforts to contain the outbreak in eastern DRC.
