The Democratic Republic of the Congo has reported a total of 1,048 confirmed Ebola cases, with 267 deaths, as per the latest health authorities’ report. Currently, 371 patients are in isolation or hospitalized, while 112 individuals have recovered. The report also highlights 202 suspected cases, including 60 deaths, with an overall case fatality rate of 25.5 percent.
The number of confirmed Ebola cases in the country continues to escalate weekly, indicating sustained community transmission. Authorities caution that without prompt implementation of public health measures, there is a risk of rapid geographic spread. The ongoing outbreak, attributed to the Bundibugyo ebolavirus, was officially announced by the DRC’s health ministry on May 15.
UN humanitarian agencies have raised concerns about the heightened risk of Ebola transmission in displacement camps within the DRC due to overcrowding and poor sanitation. Over 270,000 individuals, predominantly women and children, are residing in more than 60 sites across the Ituri province, lacking adequate access to essential services. Reports indicate at least 13 deaths in two camps in Bunia, with ongoing investigations to determine any Ebola-related links.
Amid a resurgence of Ebola cases in Bunia, challenges such as mistrust of health facilities, overcrowding, inadequate prevention measures, and improper handling of bodies are amplifying transmission risks within the displacement camps. Ituri province remains the outbreak’s focal point, with over 90 percent of confirmed cases originating from this region.
