DR Congo Ebola Outbreak Worsens With 3,200 Cases, 1,405 Deaths; Uganda Nears Ebola-Free Status

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is grappling with a worsening Ebola outbreak, recording 3,200 confirmed cases and 1,405 deaths across six provinces. The latest situation report indicates 571 recoveries and 773 patients still in isolation.

Health authorities registered 125 new infections and 51 deaths in the 24 hours preceding the report, highlighting the virus's continued transmission. The outbreak, declared on May 15 and caused by the Bundibugyo strain, lacks an approved vaccine or specific treatment, though candidate vaccines are under evaluation.

Ituri Province remains the hardest-hit area, responsible for 89% of all confirmed infections nationwide. Health officials attribute the sustained spread to population movements, insecurity, artisanal mining, and cross-border travel with Uganda and South Sudan. The outbreak persists in a phase of sustained transmission with high virus circulation.

Treatment facilities are under mounting pressure, particularly in North Kivu Province, where occupancy rates exceed designed capacity. Nationwide, Ebola treatment centers are at 82.1% occupancy, straining the health system. Authorities plan to intensify surveillance and response measures.

Meanwhile, neighboring Uganda is approaching Ebola-free status after discharging its last patient. Under World Health Organization guidelines, 42 days must pass without new cases. In Nigeria, health authorities have heightened surveillance and emergency preparedness at entry points and across states due to the outbreak's severity in the DRC and Uganda.