The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has certainly surprised many, but not James Baguma. Having studied the wildlife-human interactions in Uganda’s Bundibugyo district, where the specific Ebola virus tied to this outbreak was first identified around twenty years ago, he had a foreboding sense about the situation.
This recent outbreak is the 17th instance of Ebola in the DRC since the virus’s discovery in 1976. Currently, 51 individuals have tested positive for this Bundibugyo strain; there are also about 600 suspected cases, and tragically, 139 deaths have been reported, according to Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the World Health Organization’s director-general. He anticipates that numbers will continue to climb.
The exact origin of the outbreak in Ituri province remains unclear, but there’s a strong suspicion that fruit bats are involved. Being natural reservoirs for Ebola viruses, these bats are prevalent in the area. Historically, Ebola outbreaks have resulted from spillover events—where the virus transitions from bats to other animals or directly to humans.
Baguma, currently affiliated with Makerere University in Kampala, discusses what makes this region particularly susceptible to zoonotic spillover events with Nature.
Why is this region so at risk from Ebola outbreaks?
In Bundibugyo, the communities are situated near national parks rich in wildlife, particularly fruit bats and primates like monkeys and baboons. The proximity leads to frequent interactions between these animals and the residents. Hunting in the parks is common, and it’s not unusual for wild animals to raid local gardens for food. This close ecosystem connection heightens the risk of spillover due to direct contact.
Moreover, Uganda shares a highly porous border with the DRC, allowing people to cross back and forth without proper documentation.
Bushmeat markets straddle the border, offering meats from monkeys, baboons, and bats. Many community members claim they consume this meat often without falling ill, complicating any efforts aimed at changing behaviors. “All you can do is guide people,” Baguma reflects. “That’s likely how these outbreaks begin.”
Additionally, having bats roosting in homes poses another layer of risk, as they can unknowingly contaminate food and water. Their droppings and urine accumulate unnoticed, and people might inadvertently eat food that has fallen on the floor without washing it first.
Children picking fruit from gardens that bats have partially eaten increases the potential for infection as well.
Are people aware of the risks?
While there’s certainly heightened awareness about such diseases, people have their immediate concerns—like food security and income—especially when there’s no ongoing outbreak.
How do you increase awareness?
To foster conversation, it’s essential to engage trusted local leaders—district administrators, health authorities, and religious figures—who can effectively communicate health messages. While messages might be crafted by experts, they need to be translated into local dialects and phrased in relatable terms.
There’s a particular focus on collaborating with women’s groups. Since women typically manage household duties—finding and preparing food, caring for children—they’re often more receptive to health-related messages than men. By targeting women, strategies for safer practices regarding bats can penetrate households more efficiently.
