Key facts
- The Ebola outbreak in the DRC has recorded more than 4,000 confirmed cases.
- Over 2,325 people have died in the current Ebola outbreak.
- The outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo species of Ebola virus.
- The outbreak is the second-largest and fastest-growing on record.
- Violence and mistrust in eastern DRC are hindering response efforts.
- At least a dozen Ebola treatment facilities have been attacked.
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has become the deadliest in the country's history, with over 4,945 confirmed cases and 2,325 deaths reported. The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo species of the Ebola virus, was declared on May 15 and subsequently declared a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization (WHO).
This outbreak is the second-largest and fastest-growing on record, with the case fatality ratio rising to 46% by mid-August, meaning nearly half of confirmed cases are now deadly. This increase is attributed to many cases being detected late, often after patients die in the community, highlighting challenges in contact tracing and early treatment.
Response efforts are severely hampered by ongoing violence from non-State armed groups in eastern DRC, a region known for its remoteness and mineral wealth. This insecurity, coupled with deep community mistrust of outside authorities and misinformation, has led to attacks on at least a dozen Ebola treatment facilities. The UN's humanitarian aid office (OCHA) reported that civilians have been killed, abducted, and displaced due to attacks, further complicating access for aid workers.
Experimental vaccines and treatments are being evaluated, with trials underway in the DRC's Ituri province, the outbreak's epicenter. However, results are expected to be several months away. The UN and its partners are working to improve screening, deploy personnel, provide protective equipment, and engage communities, while also preparing neighboring Rwanda for potential spread due to frequent border crossings.