Doctor fighting Ebola outbreak killed in DRC: WHO

Kinshasa: A doctor fighting the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic Of Congo (DRC) was killed in an attack on a hospital, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed.

Dr. Richard Valery Mouzoko Kiboung was an epidemiologist deployed by WHO to the country, saving lives in the fight against the lethal disease. Two other people were injured in the attack, they, however, are reportedly in a stable condition.

“I and all of WHO are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague and brother Dr. Mouzoko. He put himself on the frontline to save lives in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” said WHO Director-General Dr. Ghebreyesus. “We grieve with his family and friends at this very difficult time.”

“This is a tragic reminder of the risks health workers take every day to protect the lives and health of others. We are outraged by this attack: health workers and health facilities must never be targets.”

The attack took place during a coordination meeting being held at the hospital at that time.

“We are assessing the security situation to ensure the safety of all patients, health workers and Ebola responders”, said Dr. Ghebreyesus. “At the same time, we remain committed to continue supporting the Ministry of Health of DRC to end this outbreak as quickly as possible.”