The American physician who contracted Ebola within the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has returned to the US.
Dr. Peter Stafford; his spouse, Dr. Rebekah Stafford; and their 4 youngsters arrived safely on Monday, based on Serge, the worldwide Christian missionary group that employs the couple.
“I’m crammed with gratitude to God for preserving my life, to all those that prayed on my behalf, and to the various medical suppliers who cared for me. I’m feeling nicely and grateful to be reunited with Rebekah and the children,” Peter Stafford mentioned in a press release. “Our prayers proceed for these in Congo who’re dealing with this devastating epidemic and for the continuing efforts to regulate the illness.”
Peter Stafford examined constructive whereas working with sufferers within the DRC and was evacuated to Germany to obtain specialty care. He was hospitalized at Charité College Hospital in Berlin.
Rebekah Stafford and their 4 youngsters have been additionally evacuated to Germany and moved right into a separate house on the hospital as high-risk contacts.
Serge, a global Christian missions group, has confirmed that American medical missionary Dr. Peter Stafford, his spouse, Dr. Rebekah Stafford, and their 4 youngsters have arrived safely in the US.
Courtesy of Serge
The household was discharged from the hospital earlier this month and Peter Stafford has remained Ebola free since Might 30, based on Serge. U.S. well being authorities are in common contact with Peter Stafford, Serge mentioned.
“Our hearts stay deeply saddened for our Congolese mates and colleagues and people impacted by this outbreak,” Matt Allison, government director of Serge, mentioned in a press release. “Our mission is extra important than ever as we mobilize medical help and assets to companions within the space.”
Allison continued, “Thanks to those that have prayed and given sacrificially to this work. Additionally, we want to categorical our immense gratitude to the various worldwide organizations, governments, and companions who cared for the Stafford household and introduced them dwelling safely.”
The outbreak was first detected within the DRC’s northeastern province of Ituri, with instances formally confirmed by the well being ministry on Might 15. It marks the seventeenth outbreak of Ebola virus illness within the DRC, which is Africa’s second-largest nation and its fourth-most populous nation.
Congo’s Well being Minister Roger Kamba mentioned throughout a press briefing on Monday night that the DRC has now recorded 808 confirmed Ebola instances and 192 deaths. In neighboring Uganda, no less than 19 instances — principally linked to journey — and two deaths have been confirmed, based on the Ugandan well being ministry.
