New Outbreak of Ebola Kills 65 in Eastern DR Congo
A new Ebola outbreak has been confirmed in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where 65 deaths have already been recorded, according to Africa’s leading public health agency.
Ebola outbreak confirmed in DR Congo’s Ituri province with 65 deaths and 246 suspected cases reported by Africa CDC.
The outbreak is centered in the remote Ituri province, where the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) said officials have identified 246 suspected cases. The agency reported on Friday that the majority of infections and deaths have been concentrated in the Mongwalu and Rwampara health zones.
Al-hadji Kudra Maliro/The Associated Press
Authorities have confirmed four deaths among laboratory-tested Ebola patients. Suspected infections have also emerged in Bunia, the capital city of Ituri province, which lies near the border with Uganda.
Preliminary laboratory analysis found the Ebola virus in 13 out of 20 samples tested, further confirming the spread of the disease in the region.
Ebola is a highly dangerous virus that spreads through bodily fluids such as blood, vomit, and semen. The disease can lead to severe illness and is often fatal.
Africa CDC also expressed concern over the outbreak’s proximity to neighbouring Uganda and South Sudan, raising fears about possible cross-border transmission.
To strengthen response efforts, an emergency meeting involving health officials from Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan was scheduled for Friday. Representatives from United Nations agencies and other international partners were also expected to participate in coordinating containment measures.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has faced 17 Ebola outbreaks since the virus was first identified in the country in 1976. One of the most devastating outbreaks occurred between 2018 and 2020 in eastern Congo, where more than 2,000 people lost their lives.
Containment efforts are being further complicated by ongoing violence in eastern Congo. Armed groups operating in the region include the M23 rebel movement and the Islamic State-linked Allied Democratic Force.
Dr Gabriel Nsakala, a public health professor who has participated in previous Ebola response efforts in Congo, said the country already has significant experience managing such outbreaks. However, he stressed that swift action would remain critical.
"In terms of training, people already know what they can do," he said.
"Now, the expertise and equipment need to be delivered quickly."
