India, Sept. 1 -- As millions of children return to classrooms across the Democratic Republic of Congo this week, health responders are warning that schools could become a new challenge in efforts to contain an Ebola outbreak that has already killed thousands. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) said close contact in classrooms and communal dormitories could increase transmission risks, particularly in areas where infections remain high.
Ebola Toll Mounts Among Children
The outbreak, now in its fourth month, has recorded more than 5,945 cases and over 2,862 deaths across eastern DRC, according to health authorities cited by the IRC. By early August, children accounted for 743 cases and 330 deaths.
Schools in high-risk locations, inc...