Red Cross Raises Alarm Over Laboratory Risks Amid Fighting in DR Congo

The Red Cross warns that fighting in Goma, DR Congo, poses risks of Ebola and other pathogens escaping from a laboratory. The situation has led to increased civilian casualties, with the ICRC treating hundreds of wounded individuals. Humanitarian conditions are deteriorating as conflict escalates, necessitating urgent intervention.

The Red Cross expressed its deep concern on Tuesday regarding the potential risk of viral outbreaks stemming from ongoing conflict in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) highlighted the imminent danger of losing samples of Ebola and other pathogens held in a laboratory in the area due to possible power outages caused by the fighting. Patrick Youssef, ICRC’s regional director for Africa, emphasized the critical need to safeguard these biological samples, warning of catastrophic consequences should they be released into the environment.

Goma, a city nearing the border with Rwanda, has witnessed escalated violence as the Tutsi-led M23 rebel group and Rwandan forces engage in combat. This eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo has been a site of prolonged conflict involving various armed groups, significantly impacting the civilian population. As the United Nations refugee agency reported, at least half a million individuals have been displaced since early this year, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Goma, which already shelters approximately 700,000 internally displaced persons.

As fighting intensifies, the ICRC has observed a disturbing increase in civilian casualties, with its facilities in Goma receiving numerous victims of gunfire and explosive injuries. Since the beginning of the month alone, the organization has treated over 600 wounded individuals, nearly half being civilians including women and children. Myriam Favier, the head of the ICRC sub-delegation in Goma, reported that the injured are being transported under precarious conditions, highlighting the critical challenges faced by victims seeking medical assistance in the area.

Francois Moreillon, heading the ICRC’s operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, indicated a surge in calls for help from those wounded in the conflict. He noted that many people feel abandoned and helpless amidst the violence, emphasizing the dire need for immediate humanitarian aid and intervention as the situation continues to deteriorate in Goma.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has long been plagued by violence and civil conflict, particularly in the eastern regions where many armed groups vie for control. The M23 rebel group has recently intensified its military actions around Goma, raising fears of additional consequences for civilians and healthcare infrastructures. Given the proximity of a laboratory containing dangerous pathogens, including samples of the Ebola virus, the conflict poses a critical risk not only to human lives but also to public health and safety.

In summary, the Red Cross has raised urgent alarms regarding the risks posed by ongoing fighting in Goma, which threatens the security of a facility holding dangerous viral samples. As hostilities escalate, the humanitarian situation becomes increasingly critical, with thousands displaced and many wounded in need of immediate assistance. The organization calls for heightened awareness and proactive measures to mitigate potential outbreaks and to aid suffering civilians caught in the violence.

Original Source: www.lemonde.fr

Omar Fitzgerald

Omar Fitzgerald boasts a rich background in investigative journalism, with a keen focus on social reforms and ethical practices. After earning accolades during his college years, he joined a major news network, where he honed his skills in data journalism and critical analysis. Omar has contributed to high-profile stories that have led to policy changes, showcasing his commitment to justice and truth in reporting. His captivating writing style and meticulous attention to detail have positioned him as a trusted figure in contemporary journalism.

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