Ebola outbreak in drc: 515 confirmed cases, 91 deaths, ituri remains epicentre

The Ebola virus disease outbreak (Bundibugyo strain) is still spreading in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Health authorities reported on Sunday that 515 confirmed cases have been recorded since the epidemic began across Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu provinces.

The same update shows 91 deaths among confirmed cases, giving an overall case fatality rate of 17.7%.

Officials also note that 283 patients are currently in isolation or hospitalised, while 12 people have recovered since the outbreak started.

In the past 24 hours, 27 new confirmed cases were recorded.

Twenty-five health zones affected

According to official data, the epidemic now affects 25 of the country’s 104 health zones.

Ituri remains the worst-hit province, with 17 out of 36 health zones reporting cases: Aru, Aungba, Bambu, Bunia, Damas, Gety, Kilo, Komanda, Lita, Logo, Mambasa, Mangala, Mongbwalu, Nizi, Nyankunde, Rimba, and Rwampara.

North Kivu and South Kivu also have several active clusters, showing the geographic spread beyond the initial epicentre.

North Kivu and South Kivu also report fatalities.

In neighbouring provinces, Katwa health zone remains the main active cluster, with 11 confirmed cases and 8 deaths.

It is followed by:

– Beni: 5 confirmed cases and 3 deaths;

– Butembo: 4 confirmed cases and 2 deaths;

– Miti-Murhesa: 3 confirmed cases and 1 death;

– Oicha: 2 confirmed cases and 2 deaths;

– Kalunguta: 1 confirmed case and 1 death;

– Kyondo: 1 confirmed case and no deaths;

– Goma: 1 confirmed case and no deaths.

Response faces multiple challenges

These figures come amid many challenges for response teams, including ongoing insecurity in parts of Ituri, logistical difficulties reaching affected communities, and the need to strengthen awareness campaigns to combat rumours and misinformation.

Health authorities continue to urge people to report any suspected cases promptly and to follow prevention measures to limit the virus’s spread.