Meta-analysis of Ebola outbreaks finds 54% mortality, identifies hemorrhage as key risk factor (cidrap.umn.edu)

• Pooled mortality 54% (95% prediction interval 20.3%–87.6%) across 16,413 patients
• Hemorrhage strongest risk factor (OR 3.52); diarrhea OR 6.64 (low certainty)
• Mortality higher in West Africa 2014-16 (56%) vs Central Africa 2018-20 (43%)
• No approved vaccines/treatments for current DRC Bundibugyo strain
• Study calls for standardized data collection and improved supportive care

"A meta-analysis of 11 studies on Ebola from 2013-2020 outbreaks found a pooled mortality rate of 54% among hospitalized patients, with wide variation. Hemorrhagic manifestations were strongly associated with death (OR 3.52). Mortality was higher during the 2014-16 West Africa outbreak (56%) than the 2018-20 Central Africa outbreaks (43%), likely due to improved care and monoclonal antibodies. The current DRC outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain, for which no approved treatments exist. The study emphasizes early access to care and standardized protocols to reduce deaths."