Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have expanded Ebola treatment capacity as facilities in Ituri Province face growing pressure from the outbreak.
The World Health Organization said Ituri had 25 care facilities by 1 September, including 15 Ebola treatment centres and 10 transit centres across 19 health zones. Together, they provided 974 beds.
Across affected provinces, 59 facilities had been identified with a combined capacity of 1,346 beds. That is a sharp increase from the single nine-bed treatment centre operating shortly after the outbreak was declared in May.
More than 4,000 additional health professionals have been deployed to reinforce treatment teams, according to WHO. Facilities have also reorganised patient areas, increased staffing and restocked medicines and equipment.
Pressure is uneven. WHO said overall bed occupancy in Ituri was about 62%, but some centres in Bunia were operating at between 90% and full capacity.
The agency estimates that more than 6,200 additional staff and equipment for 2,071 extra operational beds will be needed over the next three months if demand continues.
Health teams are separating suspected and confirmed Ebola cases from other patients to reduce infection risks while maintaining care for people with unrelated medical needs.
WHO says early presentation remains important because patients who begin treatment sooner generally have a better chance of recovery. The response is being supported by international partners and donors.
