Four things to know:
1. Health officials reported 11 new Ebola cases March 21, bringing the total case count to 991. Of these cases, 926 are confirmed.
2. Officials also reported 614 confirmed and probable deaths linked to the outbreak. Another 230 suspected cases are still under investigation.
3. The sudden increase in cases “is not unexpected and, in part, likely a result of the increased security challenges,” the World Health Organization said in a March 21 outbreak update. The group cited recent attacks on Ebola treatment centers and community mistrust as major factors hindering response efforts.
4. However, the WHO noted community acceptance to outbreak response efforts is improving. More than 90 percent of people eligible for the Ebola vaccine have received it. To date, health workers have administered 89,855 Ebola vaccines in Congo.
More articles on clinical leadership and infection control:
Physicians ‘terrorized into silence’ by anti-vaccine groups online
Hospital-associated sepsis on decline, but treatment costs climb to $1.5B
WHO unveils final recommendations for 2019-20 flu vaccine: 3 notes
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.