American Doctor Previously Infected with Ebola in DRC Returns to U.S.
Tyunews.com – The Stafford family, including Dr. Peter Stafford, who contracted Ebola during his work in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has reached U.S. soil safely on Monday. According to Serge, the international Christian missionary group that employs the couple, the family’s arrival marks the end of their isolation period following the outbreak.
“I am filled with gratitude to God for preserving my life, to all those who prayed on my behalf, and to the many medical providers who cared for me. I am feeling well and thankful to be reunited with Rebekah and the kids,” Peter Stafford stated.
Dr. Stafford was evacuated to Germany for specialized treatment after testing positive for Ebola while working with patients in the DRC. The family was placed in a separate area of Charité University Hospital in Berlin as high-risk contacts. They were discharged earlier this month, and Peter has remained Ebola-free since May 30, as confirmed by Serge.
Related: US Doctor Infected with Ebola ‘Feels Good’ and Is Able to Eat, Colleague Says
While Dr. Stafford recovered, another U.S. medical professional infected with Ebola during the same outbreak showed signs of improvement. A colleague reported that the individual is now able to eat and expresses cautious optimism about their recovery.
DRC’s Ebola Outbreak: Statistics and Response
The Ebola outbreak in the DRC began in the northeastern province of Ituri, with official confirmation from the health ministry on May 15. This marks the 17th recorded instance of the virus in the country, which is Africa’s second-largest and fourth-most populous nation.
Congo’s Health Minister Roger Kamba noted during a Monday briefing that 808 cases and 192 deaths have been documented in the DRC. In Uganda, 19 cases—primarily linked to travel—and two fatalities have been confirmed, per Ugandan health officials.
“Our hearts remain deeply saddened for our Congolese friends and colleagues and those impacted by this outbreak,” said Matt Allison, executive director of Serge. “Our mission is more critical than ever as we mobilize medical support and resources to partners in the area.”
