DR Congo cancels World Cup training camp over Ebola outbreak

The Democratic Republic of Congo cancelled its pre-World Cup training camp in Kinshasa because of an Ebola outbreak in the east. Preparations were moved to Belgium due to an upsurge that has been linked to 139 deaths among 600 suspected cases. The World Health Organization labeled the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern but said it had not reached pandemic level. The national team’s pre-tournament games in Europe are planned to continue. Friendly matches are scheduled against Denmark in Liege on 3 June and against Chile in Marbella on 9 June. Authorities in the country will focus on containing Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo species, for which no vaccine currently exists and which may take up to nine months to develop.

"The Democratic Republic of Congo has cancelled its pre-World Cup training camp in the capital, Kinshasa, because of an Ebola outbreak in the east of the country. Preparations have been moved to Belgium amid the upsurge, which is thought to have killed 139 people out of 600 suspected cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) has called the outbreak a "public health emergency of international concern", but said it was not at pandemic level."

"Jerry Kalemo, a spokesperson for the national football team, told international media that pre-tournament games in Europe would go ahead as planned, as the squad gears up for their first World Cup since 1974. DR Congo are due to play friendly matches against Denmark, on 3 June in Liege, and Chile, on 9 June in Marbella, ahead of the World Cup finals."

"Back at home, authorities will be occupied with attempts to contain the Ebola outbreak, which has been caused by a rare species known as Bundibugyo. There is currently no vaccine for this species and the WHO has said it could take up to nine months for a jab to be ready."

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